Description
This fine old pistol was part of the trilogy of Colt small frame double action revolvers called the Model 1878. It was available in three calibers–the Lightning, caliber .38; the Rainmaker, caliber .32 and the Thunderer, caliber .41. Known for reliability and accuracy, the weapons were carried by police, westward going folks, gamblers and even onto the battlefields of the Spanish American War. This example was manufactured in late 1897 and is exempt from Federal Firearms regulations so no special permits are required.
This particular example functions perfectly in both single and double action mode and has FOUR neatly carved notches in the backstrap as shown. The bottom left side of the lower grip (made of a form of bakelite plastic) is chipped away and missing. It appears to have been this way for many decades. It has whispers of original blue finish but most of the weapon is a mellow gray brown patina. No parts are replaced or missing and if you could find the original blackpowder .38 ammunition, it would likely function perfectly–bear in mind we DO NOT WARRANT any antique weapon safe to fire–have it inspected first by a competent gunsmith if you want to do that.
This gun originally was found in one of the oldest homes in Del Rio, Texas around 1960 and by family story belonged to the outlaw Bill Taylor, who was a member of a train robbing gang led by Bud Newman, who Taylor killed in 1900. By story, Taylor escaped to Mexico and was never heard from again. As with many family stories, there is little concrete evidence at all–but it makes for an interesting read!
