This is an example of a cased Colt Bisley Flattop Target revolver manufactured in 1910 chambered originally in the scarce 38 Colt cartridge with a Colt factory letter. Subsequently it has been fitt4ed with a replacement 38 special cylinder. Only 96 Bisley Flattops were produced in this caliber out of a total Bisley Flattop production of approximately 976 revolvers. The letter confirms the configuration of this revolver and lists it as the sole revolver of this type shipped on November 16, 1910, to Marshall Wells Hardware Co. in Duluth, Minnesota, for H.L. Hodges. These revolvers were designed as the premier Colt target revolver of the day with a redesigned frame which provided a better grip angle for competitive target shooting. The top of the barrel is marked with the one-line address, and the left side of the barrel is marked "(Bisley Model) 38 COLT". The left side of the frame is roll-stamped with the Colt two-line three-date patent information followed by the encircled Rampant Colt trademark. The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame, front of the trigger guard and butt; the grip panels are marked with the partial serial number "3463", and the loading gate and right rear of the frame are marked with the assembly number "28". The revolver is fitted with a smooth trigger with the v-notched target rear sight, dovetailed to the flat top strap and is drift adjustable for windage. The front sight consists of two steel blocks with a pinched brass blade and it is fitted with black hard rubber checkered grips with the Rampant Colt trademark in an oval at the top.

Fine with replacement cylinder. The revolver retains 40% of the original blue finish with large portions of the barrel, ejector housing and top of the frame cleaned with an abrasive material and the grip straps worn to a gray patina from handling. The rear sight is loose and moves freely side to side. There are some traces of case colors visible on the hammer. The cylinder has a drag line and there is some scattered spotting and light scratches throughout. The grips are very good with crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent with legible markings.