When introduced in 1877, the .44-40 W.C.F. Single Action Army, or Frontier Six Shooter, was intended to be used in conjunction with another legendary western icon, the Winchester Model 1873 rifle, which came standard in the same chambering. "The .44-40 WCF was added to the list of Colt calibers for use with the popular Winchester rifle of the same caliber," wrote Colt author David Brown. "This combination of a rifle and a six shooter using the same cartridge made it possible for their user to buy only one kind of ammunition, and he could carry 'fodder' for both guns in the same cartridge belt." Manufactured in 1882, it has the standard one-line address on top of the barrel and "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" in an etched panel on the left. The left side of the frame is marked with the three-line patent dates. Matching serial numbers are visible on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, and the partial matching number is marked on the cylinder and barrel under the ejector rod housing. The original varnished single piece wood grip is matching numbered "3960" in ink on the interior. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration (barrel length and grips not listed, as was standard) as well as shipment to E.C. Meacham Arms Co. in St. Louis on 10 December 1882. These St. Louis arms distributors were prolific in shipping their guns farther west as well as local sales, preparing settlers for the dangers ahead on the Western Frontier.

Good, retaining traces of the original blue finish in sheltered areas and otherwise a smooth grey patina and extensive scattered small patches of light pitting, typical of a frontier working gun. The acid etched panel is lightly visible. The grip shows the gentle wear of years of being handled as a working gun, with some scattered minor dings. Mechanically fine.