The Colt Single Action Army Revolver is arguably the most iconic handgun of Americana. In the hands of ranchers, cavalrymen, Native Americans, lawmen, and outlaws, the Peacemaker’s legacy was forged out in the hostile American West and continues to gain popularity among today's collectors. This example was manufactured in 1883, when the West was yet to be tamed. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration, grips not listed, as well as shipment on August 28, 1886 to Lee Fried & Company of Omaha, Nebraska, a distributor that was often merely a stop for guns on their way headed farther west. The top of the barrel is marked with the standard one-line address, three-line patent dates on the left of the frame, and "45 CAL" on the left of the trigger guard. Matching full serial numbers are visible on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, and the partial matching number is on the cylinder. The inside of the loading gate has the assembly number "6648". It has standard features and is fitted with a pair of later production replacement, checkered hard rubber grips with Rampant Colt logos at the top.

Fine, retains 60% plus of the original nickel finish with the balance having thinned to a mix of smooth grey and brown patina, typical of a western working gun, as well as a few scattered patches of very light surface pitting. The cylinder pin is a non-factory replacement. The slightly undersized later production replacement grips are fine with some scattered light handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.