antique Remington Model 1875 Single Action Army Revolver with original wood grips, also known as the “Improved Army” or the “Frontier Army”, made in Ilion, New York. The Model 1875 followed the form of the successful Model 1858 which saw widespread use and acceptance during the American Civil War. It kept the 1858’s use of a top-strap frame which led to increased structural strength when compared to the competing open frame Colts from that period. The 1875 was specifically developed around the use of metallic cartridge ammunition. It was supposed to be Remington’s answer to the hugely popular Colt .45 SAA, better known as the “Peacemaker” and represented Remington’s first dive into the metallic cartridge revolver market. Ordinary citizens and Old West lawmen alike recognized the sturdy quality of the new Remington revolvers.

The Model 1875 was actually pretty late to the game by some two full years as the Colt Peacemaker had already found favor with the U.S. Government through Army bound contracts. Because of this, production totals reached only around 25,000 to 30,000 revolvers with a manufacturing period ranging from 1875 into 1889. They were manufactured in three different chamberings, which were .44 Remington Centerfire, .44-40 WCF, and .45 Colt. These were not optional, rather, the caliber of production models was determined by their date of manufacture. Frank and Jesse James both owned and used Model 1875s, at least two of which still exist. Frank’s No. 5116 and Jesse’s No. 559.

These revolvers were made in “batches”. Because of duplicate numbering in subsequent batches, serial numbers alone will give you no indication for the date of production. Sometime after the 14,000th revolver was manufactured, Remington introduced the revolver in .44-40 WCF caliber. To distinguish between the .44 Remington Centerfire and the .44-40 WCF calibers, the latter was stamped on the left grip with a plain “44” and later with a “44W” for Winchester. When the final version was introduced around 1882, the caliber mark was then placed on the left rear of the trigger guard bow. When the new firm of Remington Arms Company introduced the Model 1890, the caliber marking was changed to 44 WCF.

The overall condition is good. Original nickel finish. Strong action. The bore is in good shape bright and Shiney with good rifling. Markings are legible. Both grips are original in very good condition.