Colt's Pocket Model proved to be the most popular Colt percussion revolver and the longest produced. It was manufactured from the late 1840s until the early 1870s. Over 336,000 were manufactured not counting the slightly earlier Baby Dragoon revolvers upon which the Model 1849 was based. Thousands were carried as private sidearms by American soldiers during the Indian Wars and Civil War, and many more were used by civilians. Longer barreled examples like this were likely more popular with soldiers, pioneers, and policemen, and the shorter barreled examples would have been popular with civilians in the city and gamblers who generally preferred or were required to carry their firearms concealed. While .31 caliber hardly seems sufficient today, the Model 1849 had significantly more stopping power than the popular .22 caliber and single shot handguns popular in that day and could certainly kill a man, especially when the primitive nature of medical technology is considered. This example has a small, brass cone front sight, the "NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA" barrel address, matching serial numbers (back strap # not visible due to silver plate covering it), a small notch at the breech of the barrel for sight alignment in lieu of the standard hammer notch, standard stagecoach cylinder scene and "COLTS/PATENT" markings, a "G" on the left side of the trigger guard, a smooth one piece grip, and a small silver plate added to the butt for presentation inscription.

Very fine with 85% plus of the bright original high polish blue finish remains. The vibrant 90% case colors on the frame and the silver plating and exposed brass have aged patina. The grip is also very good and has only mild handling and storage wear. The front of the hammer is broken off, but it remains mechanically excellent, and the markings are crisp.