This is a solid example of a Colt U.S. 1873 Calvary Model Single Action Army Revolver inspected by the U.S. Ordnance Sub-Inspector Henry Nettleton. The Colt factory letter copy that accompanies the revolver states that it was delivered to the U.S. Ordnance Inspector at the Colt factory on July 24, 1878. The revolver retains all of it's original parts. The frame, trigger guard, and back strap are correctly stamped with the full serial number: "48628", while the barrel and cylinder are stamped with the partial serial number "8628". The top of the barrel has the third style bold block barrel address that correctly lacks hyphens on either end and has a broken "T" in "PT.". This style of barrel markings were used exclusively on revolvers in the Nettleton inspected serial number range with this specific example falling in the serial number range of documented pistols listed on page 55 of the book, "Colt Cavalry and Artillery Revolvers" by Kopec and Fenn. The left side of the frame is marked with the three line, three patent dates followed by "US". Henry Nettleton's "HN" initials are stamped on the bottom of the barrel ahead of the cylinder pin, the forward edge of the frame, the trigger guard below the serial number and on the left side of the hammer. A "P" proof mark is stamped on the underside of the barrel just ahead of the "HN" marking and on the side and rear face of the cylinder. The loading gate is stamped with the assembly number "230". The revolver retains the 'bulls eye' ejector head and is fitted with a smooth one-piece walnut grip with a very faint oval script "HN" inspection stamp on the lower right side.

Good. The revolver exhibits a dark brown-gray aged patina. The surfaces of the barrel are generally smooth with scattered nicks and scratches, and very light pitting. The frame, cylinder, trigger guard, back strap and hammer are lightly pitted with scattered age discoloration and light scratches. The original blue finish is visible under the ejector housing. The frame screw heads are very good with a few having been replaced. The grip is good overall. The revolver was apparently used as a frontier hammer as the underside of the grip and grip strap show numerous small dents. With the exception of the "HN" marks on the cylinder, the markings are visible. The action is crisp and functions properly. This revolver has the unmistakable look of an Indian War weapon that saw actual service, and is a solid example of an attic find revolver. It remains an attractive example of a scarce Colt Cavalry Single Action army variation in probably one of the most sought after of all inspectors, Henry Nettleton.