Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this HISTORIC and Collectible single-action revolver for a penny-start auction; this is the Colt Single Action Army - 1st Generation!
According to the included factory letter from Colt, this Colt Single Action Army was shipped to B. Kittredge & Company in Cincinnati, Ohio, on August 7, 1879. Further remarks read: As noted above, the records do not provide information with regard to the barrel length of the subject revolver or the type of stocks. However, this is usually an indication of a 7 ½" barrel length and walnut stocks, as these were considered standard issue for that time period.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Single Action Army - 1st Generation
Serial: 40905
Date of Manufacture: 1877 (According to https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup/)
Model: Single Action Army - 1st Generation
Serial: 40905
Date of Manufacture: 1877 (According to https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup/)
Date of Shipment: August 7, 1879 (According to the Factory Letter)
Caliber: .45 Colt
Finish: Patina “Originally Nickel per Supplied Colt Letter”
Barrel Length: 7 ½"
Optics/Sights: Integral Blade Front and Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Smooth Walnut Grips
Action: Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard / Features all matching serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard, butt, and cylinder.
Caliber: .45 Colt
Finish: Patina “Originally Nickel per Supplied Colt Letter”
Barrel Length: 7 ½"
Optics/Sights: Integral Blade Front and Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Smooth Walnut Grips
Action: Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard / Features all matching serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard, butt, and cylinder.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Single Action Army, famously known as the “Peacemaker,” is one of the most celebrated revolvers in American firearms history, embodying the ruggedness and independence of the American frontier. First introduced in 1873 by Colt’s Patent Firearms Manufacturing Company, the Single Action Army was originally chambered in .45 Colt and designed as a reliable sidearm for the U.S. Army. Built on a solid steel frame with a six-shot cylinder, the revolver utilizes a single-action mechanism, requiring the hammer to be manually cocked before each shot. Early models featured a simple fixed front sight with a rear notch, ensuring durability and ease of use in field conditions. Over time, Colt produced the revolver in multiple barrel lengths, from compact 4.75-inch models to 7.5-inch “Artillery” versions, as well as in a range of calibers, allowing it to adapt to military, law enforcement, and civilian needs. Its combination of mechanical reliability, robust construction, and accurate performance quickly earned it a legendary status among soldiers, lawmen, and frontier settlers alike. The Colt Single Action Army has evolved through several distinct generations, each reflecting changes in design, manufacturing methods, and market demand. The First Generation (1873–1941) consisted of the original military and civilian models, noted for their hand-fitted parts, crisp action, and classic finishes. The Second Generation (1956–1974), produced after Colt’s factory reorganization, introduced modern materials and slight dimensional refinements while retaining the traditional appearance and single-action mechanics. The Third Generation (1976–present) saw a broader expansion into commemorative and custom models, including factory-engraved editions, varying calibers, and specialized finishes, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts. Each generation maintained the revolver’s iconic silhouette and single-action operation while improving consistency, durability, and aesthetic options. Today, the Colt Single Action Army remains not only a historically significant firearm but also a symbol of American heritage, with examples from every generation valued for their mechanical excellence, cultural importance, and collectible appeal.
Contents:
This example will ship with the factory Colt letter as pictured above!
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.




