This is an outstanding example of a rare pre-war Colt factory engraved Heavy Barreled Officer's Model DA Target revolver. This exceptionally rare and beautifully Colt revolver is accompanied by a Colt factory letter (dated Dec. 2002) verifying this exact configuration as being an all blued metal finish with level "C" engraving with original Colt factory carved steer head grips that is further identified via the factory letter as having a "bead" front sight and a "3 lbs" trigger pull. This specific pistol is listed as being sold to a Game Warden "J. Reinhart", Kilgore, Texas, in May 1939. The carved grips also have gold covered steer horns, gold and silver nose chain and very small diamond inset eyes. It is the work of Master Engraved Wilbur Glahn with the level "C" engraving covering three quarters of the metal surface. Glahn was an extremely well-known engraver that originally worked for Parker Brothers engraving shotguns then eventually left that company and began working for the Colt factory from 1910-1940. His work is exceptional and is always considered as a master level with meticulous detail. This example features a fine scroll and vine pattern with a light punch dot background. A similar example is pictured in "The Book of Colt Engraving" by Wilson on page 316. If you were a top pistol shooter and could afford to own one exceptionally accurate revolver, everyone usually chose a Colt Officer's Model. This factory engraved example was usually only reserved for the very rich and/or elite among the top pistol shots in the shooting fraternity. These pistols were beautifully hand built to exacting accuracy requirements and were the best target pistols of their time. They had flat top target type frames with adjustable front and rear sights, checkered triggers and back straps, and super smooth, hand honed, double and single action trigger pull. The metal surfaces have the original Colt high polish blue finish with a matte finish on the top strap and rear grip strap. The consignor has listed this specific pistol as "one of 3" known with these features.

Exceptionally fine with 85% plus of the original factory blue finish overall with edge and high spot wear with blue loss on the front edges of the barrel, the front of the cylinder, lower frame area with a light drag line on the side and cylinder stops with sharp, exceptional engraving overall. The carved grips are in excellent condition with a nice aged yellow look with some very minor circular aged stress lines visible on the underside of the grips. The highlights on the steer head are all intact and in excellent condition. Mechanically excellent with smooth trigger pull. A very rare and historic example of a beautifully engraved Colt Officer's Model DA revolver.