Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this RARE side-by-side shotgun today for a penny-start auction; this is the Colt Model 1883 Hammerless!
The Colt Model 1883 Hammerless is one of the company’s most distinctive and collectible double-barrel shotguns, valued for its elegant design, strong boxlock action, and high level of 19th-century craftsmanship. Produced from 1883 to 1895 in relatively limited numbers—generally estimated at about 7,300 to 8,366 units—it was Colt’s first and only hammerless side-by-side, making surviving examples especially desirable. Many were built with beautifully patterned Damascus steel barrels, created by welding layers of steel and iron into spiraled, decorative patterns that remain a major visual highlight for collectors today. Fine wood-to-metal fit, quality walnut stocks with hand-cut checkering, and the availability of higher engraving grades further enhance the appeal of original, well-preserved guns. Although not suited for modern high-pressure ammunition, the Model 1883 Hammerless endures as a standout piece of American sporting history, prized for its rarity, craftsmanship, and the unmistakable artistry of its Damascus barrels.
According to the included letter, this Colt Model 1883 Hammerless serial number 5892 was shipped to the Colt Patent Firearms Company, San Francisco Agency in San Francisco, California, on July 25, 1891.
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SPECIFICATIONS:Manufacturer: Colt
Model: 1883 Hammerless
Serial: 5892
Date of Manufacture: 1891
Caliber: 12 Gauge
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 30" Damascus Barrels
Optics/Sights: Bead Front
Stock/Grips: Walnut Checkered Round Knob Stock and Forearm
Action: Side-by-Side
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Model 1883 Hammerless represents one of the most refined and collectible sporting arms ever produced by Colt, combining elegant design with the craftsmanship expected of a premium 19th-century shotgun. Manufactured in 1891, this example—serial number 5892—is chambered in 12 gauge and fitted with 30" Damascus barrels displaying the intricate spiral patterns that define high-quality Damascus steel of the era. These barrels, created by welding layers of steel and iron into decorative, flowing patterns, provide both historic character and significant collector appeal. The shotgun features a bead front sight, blued finish, and a checkered walnut stock with a round knob grip, showcasing the excellent wood-to-metal fit and aesthetic refinement that distinguished Colt’s work. As Colt’s first and only hammerless side-by-side, the Model 1883 also utilized a strong boxlock action and tight mechanical tolerances, reflecting the company’s effort to enter the high-end sporting market.
Model: 1883 Hammerless
Serial: 5892
Date of Manufacture: 1891
Caliber: 12 Gauge
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 30" Damascus Barrels
Optics/Sights: Bead Front
Stock/Grips: Walnut Checkered Round Knob Stock and Forearm
Action: Side-by-Side
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Model 1883 Hammerless represents one of the most refined and collectible sporting arms ever produced by Colt, combining elegant design with the craftsmanship expected of a premium 19th-century shotgun. Manufactured in 1891, this example—serial number 5892—is chambered in 12 gauge and fitted with 30" Damascus barrels displaying the intricate spiral patterns that define high-quality Damascus steel of the era. These barrels, created by welding layers of steel and iron into decorative, flowing patterns, provide both historic character and significant collector appeal. The shotgun features a bead front sight, blued finish, and a checkered walnut stock with a round knob grip, showcasing the excellent wood-to-metal fit and aesthetic refinement that distinguished Colt’s work. As Colt’s first and only hammerless side-by-side, the Model 1883 also utilized a strong boxlock action and tight mechanical tolerances, reflecting the company’s effort to enter the high-end sporting market.
Production numbers for this model were limited—generally estimated between 7,300 and 8,366 units from 1883 to 1895—making surviving, well-preserved examples particularly desirable. Some were ordered with custom features or engraving, further adding to their rarity, while standard guns like this one remain sought after for their workmanship, handling qualities, and historical significance. The rich Damascus patterns, quality walnut checkering, and overall condition play major roles in collector interest today. Although these shotguns are not intended for use with modern high-pressure ammunition, the Model 1883 Hammerless remains a standout piece of American firearms history, admired for its craftsmanship, scarcity, and the unmistakable beauty of its original Damascus barrels.
Contents:
Contents:
This example will ship with the Colt Industries letter pictured above!
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
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About Us
From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection.
