This is an example of a U.S. Ainsworth inspected Pre-Custer Battle Colt Single Action Army Cavalry Model revolver that was manufactured in 1874. This Government Contract Single Action was inspected by Ordnance Sub-Inspector Orville W. Ainsworth and has his "A" sub-inspection mark stamped on major components. The revolver has the distinctive early production features which include the First Style two-line, two-patent date markings on the left side of the frame followed by "U.S.", one-line script barrel address and "bullseye" ejector rod head. The hammer spur has elongated bordered knurling. The small "A" Ainsworth sub-inspection mark is stamped on the underside of the barrel, on the trigger guard directly below the serial number, on the top of the back strap and on the side of the cylinder. A small "P" proofmark is stamped on the underside of the barrel and on the side of the cylinder. The full serial number, "5614" is stamped on the frame, trigger guard, back strap and on the side of the cylinder. The stretched replacement barrel has been numbered to match. The assembly number "765" is stamped on the loading gate. The Ordnance final and sub-inspection marks on the sides of the grip are no longer visible. These early revolvers were primarily issued to the ten cavalry regiments on the frontier, including the 7th Cavalry, and were used throughout the Indian Wars. After 1895 nearly all of the surviving revolvers were recalled and overhauled to "Artillery" configuration and subsequently issued during the Spanish-American War and Philippine Insurrection.

Refinished, restamped and altered, see above, with an artificial dark brown patina on the metal surfaces and showing some pitting on the barrel, frame and cylinder. There is some oxidation on the frame as well. The grip is with heavy wear on the bottom edges, small chips on the heels and toes, and a couple dents and dings. The markings are readable. The action is fine.