Also, it has two sets of "Serial" numbers> One set is the standard Colt numbers at the bottom of the Grip and the other (I am assuming is assembly numbers) are on the loading Gate, frame, and cylinder.
You'd assume correctly. Also remove the stocks (going very carefully - they are easily cracked or chipped if stressed) and you may find the same number on the inside of one of both panels.
I am thinking that the ole pistol is interesting enough to perhaps letter. Any ideas on that process?
Log onto
www.coltsmfg.com/CustomerServices/ArchiveServices.aspx and follow the instructions. Be aware that they don't come cheap, and the military association may have not been mentioned in their shipping records. They can tell you what distributor or dealer they sent it to, how many guns were in the shipment, and on what date.
Anyone have any ideas how many Colt made like this?
I suspect not many, as the Model 1878 was not a regular in the U.S. Army's inventory, and the only contract I know of was a special order for 4,600 (so called) Model 1902 revolvers that had an oversized trigger guard and trigger for the Philippine Constabulary so they could pull the trigger with 2 fingers.
A very few might have been rejected by government inspectors for minor reasons. In such cases Colt would replace the rejected piece, and then use it in commercial production after correcting it. Unfortunately I don't think they bothered to keep specific records.
I am deeply saddened and a little hurt that you have not included pictures of your new acquisition.
Some members are not in a position to upload pictures for various reasons. However if you use a search engine (Yahoo, Google, etc.) and the key term "Colt Model 1878" or "Philippine Model" you should find all kinds of pictures.
Are you going to shoot it?
I sure hope not! This revolver is over 100 years old. If you should happen to break a part - some of which are very delicate - replacements are not easily obtained or not available at all. Qualified gunsmiths who might be able to repair one can be counted on the fingers of one hand, with several left over. They're services come at considerable cost. Is there any good reason to risk a valuable historical relic just to go BANG! ? :banghead: