Only 1,000 First Model 1855 Sporting Rifles were manufactured per the chart on page 182 of "The Book of Colt Firearms" by Wilson. Of those, he lists 300 with 27 inch barrels like this rifle. This design was patented by Colt on March 3, 1857, but they were already in production in 1856. This rifle features a blade front sight, the two-line patent and Colt Hartford address marking on top of the octagonal breech section of the barrel, a notch and folding ladder rear sight, the distinctive patented oiler and cleaning rod on the left side, the deer and hunter roll-scene and "COLT'S PATENT/SPORTING RIFLE" marking on the cylinder, the double spur trigger guard, and a nicely figured rifle buttstock. Matching serial numbers located on the barrel, wedge, cylinder, frame, trigger guard tang, and buttplate. A circular collection tag stamped "0172" is hanging from the trigger guard.

Fine, retains 50% plus original blue finish with smooth brown and gray patina on the balance, scattered light to moderate freckling, strong patterns of case colors visible on the loading lever and hammer, and sharp markings, cylinder scene and edges in the metal overall. The stock is also fine with scattered light surface flaking and handling marks, a small chip at the right rear of the upper tang, and defined edges overall. Mechanically excellent. This is an attractive example of a desirable Colt First Model 1855 Hartford Revolving Rifle!