Colt's Third Model Dragoon revolvers were the last of Colt's massive "horse pistols" descended from the famous Colt Walker. The Dragoons were used by the 1st and 2nd Dragoons and U.S. Regiment of Mounted Riflemen in the West in the antebellum era and also so extensive use during the Civil War by both sides. This Third Model Dragoon was manufactured in 1858 and features "GGS" (G.G. Saunders) and "WAT" (Captain William Anderson Thornton) inspector cartouches on the grip. The barrel has a half-moon German silver blade front, dovetail mounted three-leaf rear sight, and the one-line New York address. The cylinder has the classic roll scene depicting a running battle between the Texas Rangers and the Comanche and the "MODEL U.S.M.R." and "COLT'S PATENT" markings. The left side of the frame has the "COLTS/PATENT/U.S." marking. The frame's recoil shield is cut for a shoulder stock, and the elongated mounting screws are fitted to the sides of the frame. The butt has the corresponding slot for a stock. There are several small inspection type markings, including some additional "C" markings on multiple components (likely condemnation marks). Matching serial numbers are found on the loading lever, cylinder, barrel, frame, trigger guard, back strap, and rear mortise of the grip. The wedge is tight and was not removed. Only around 1,500 Dragoons were made with provisions for shoulder stocks. These revolvers were issued in pairs with one shoulder stock.

Good with mostly brown patina, some traces of old refinished brown on the top of the repaired back strap, mostly distinct markings including the cylinder scene, some mild dings and scratches, faint pitting, and general mild overall wear. The lightly sanded and re-oiled grip is good with mild overall wear, chips at the toe, some hammering marks on the butt, and hand-worn finish. Mechanically excellent.