For Sale: Colt Open Top Pocket Revolver (Old Line)

The Colt Open Top Pocket revolver or Colt Old Line 22 was introduced in 1871 in competition with less expensive, small caliber revolvers entering the post war commercial market. Its small overall size (5 ¾-inches) made it ideal for carrying whether walking around town or while traveling and the Colt name conveyed a quality superior to the competition. Constructed around a brass frame and steel for the barrel and cylinder, the revolver came in several barrel lengths and finishes, among other options. All featured .22 caliber rimfire chambering, single-action, spur trigger, walnut grips, and a 7-round capacity cylinder.

The Open Top Pocket revolver presented here is a serial number matching specimen manufactured in 1873. Features include the 2 3/8-inch barrel, high spur hammer, and walnut bird’s head grips. The revolver is marked with the ¾-inch long ‘+COLT S PT. F.A MFG. Co/HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.+’ barrel address. The left side of the frame, under the cylinder stop notches, bears ’22 CAL.’. The serial number is stamped on both the butt and under the barrel and written in pencil inside the grips. The letter ‘H’ inspector’s stamp is present on the rear cylinder face, and the letter ‘P’ is stamped on the grip frame near the grip screw hole.

Overall, this Colt Open Top Pocket revolver is in good condition and shows wear from being carried and used. No major handling marks or damage are present. The barrel address and caliber marking are worn but legible; the serial number stamps remain sharp. The grips are undamaged and fit nicely with the grip frame. All screwheads are in excellent condition. The cylinder is fairly tight and rotates when the hammer is pulled back with the exception of sticking at one chamber. The action itself is strong and crisp, functioning as intended. The bore is semi-dark and frosty with some pitting and visible rifling.

See pictures for overall condition. Antique. Check with a local FFL dealer to confirm your state laws governing ownership of an antique firearm before purchasing this item.