COLT MODEL 1878 DA Description

.32-20 WCF (scarce), .38 Colt (approx. 40 mfg.), .38-40 WCF, .41 LC (scarce, 308 mfg.), .44 Russian, .44 S&W, .44-40 WCF (Colt Frontier Six Shooter), .45, .450 Eley, .455 Eley, or .476 Eley cal., 2 1/2 (scarce), 3 1/2, or 4 in. barrels without ejector, 4 3/4, 5 1/2, 7 1/2, 8, 8 1/2, 9, 10, or 12 in. with ejector. Mfg. 1878-1905. Over 51,000 made. RF=1.

Approximately 80% of production for this model was in .44-40 WCF and .45 cals.
This model in .44-40 WCF was called the Colt Frontier Six Shooter, and this inscription is either acid etched or roll marked on the barrel.
On the acid etched variation of the .45 LC cal., fewer than 200 were marked "Omnipotent" - serial numbers can range from approx. 200-8,265. The Omnipotent marked 1878s were available in either nickel or blue finished and were manufactured between 1878-1882. The large majority of these were shipped Colt's distributor at the time, B. Kittredge. An authentic "Omnipotent" marked Model 1878 particularly in blue finish will bring approx. a 30%-50% premium over a gun in the same condition without the acid etched marking. It highly recommended that a Colt factory letter verifies this configuration.
This model has an action that is weaker than that of the SAA, and should be carefully inspected to make sure the cylinder turns and locks up properly. Since original parts are scarce, at least $750 must be deducted for a non-working action.
Many original 1878 barrels have "found their way" on the front end of a SAA frame since the barrels are interchangeable. Because of this, many "original" Model 1878 DAs may have an incorrect and/or later SAA Colt barrel attached. Watch yourself here! Also, scarce calibers should be verified with factory letter.