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Colt Trooper

The Colt Trooper is a medium-frame, double-action produced by , featuring a six-round swing-out and designed primarily for and civilian . Introduced in 1953 as an affordable alternative to higher-end models like the , it was initially chambered in and , with added in 1961, and later variants including . The Trooper's development reflected Colt's efforts to modernize its lineup in the post-World War II era, building on the established E-frame design of earlier models like the Official Police while incorporating adjustable Accro rear sights and ramped front sights for improved accuracy. Production spanned over three decades until 1986, with early E-frame models (1953–1961) using a hammer-mounted and I-frame models for .357 variants (post-1961) using a frame-mounted . Barrel lengths typically ranged from 4 to 6 inches, with options for 8-inch in some configurations, and finishes included blued steel or bright nickel, paired with target or service-style grips. In 1969, the Trooper evolved into the Mark III series, introducing a redesigned lockwork with coil springs replacing traditional leaf springs for enhanced durability and smoother operation, making it a robust choice for high-round-count duty. The MK III maintained compatibility with both and ammunition, emphasizing reliability in demanding conditions, and was produced until 1983. A final update, the MK V in 1983, featured further refinements like an improved ejector rod shroud before discontinuation amid shifting market preferences toward semi-automatic pistols. Throughout its run, the Trooper was praised for its balance of performance and value, retailing for as low as $71 in 1953, though it remains less celebrated today compared to Colt's iconic .

Overview

General Description

The Colt Trooper is a medium-frame double-action with a six-round swing-out , manufactured by . Introduced in 1953, it was designed as a versatile service emphasizing durability and ease of use for professional and personal applications. Positioned as an affordable and reliable alternative to premium models like the —which debuted two years later in 1955—the Trooper targeted agencies seeking a cost-effective duty weapon, as well as civilians for . Its simpler construction and lower price point made it a practical choice without the upscale features of higher-end Colts. The revolver's core action supports both double-action and single-action modes, delivering a smooth trigger pull and secure cylinder lockup for consistent performance. Production spanned from 1953 until 1986, during which it competed directly with budget options like the "Highway Patrolman." Over time, the line evolved into the Mark series variants for continued refinement.

Key Specifications

The Colt Trooper series features a medium-frame design with a six-round swing-out , available in calibers including , , , and . Barrel lengths range from 4 to 8 inches (102 to 203 mm) for standard models, with 4-inch and 6-inch options being the most common configurations across models; shorter 2-inch barrels were available on related variants like the Lawman. Frame sizes vary by generation: the original model uses the E-frame (early production) or I-frame (later .357 variants), the Mark III employs a J-frame, and the Mark V utilizes a V-frame comparable in size to the Smith & Wesson K-frame. Unloaded weights typically fall between 34 and 40 ounces, influenced by the specific model and barrel length—for instance, a 4-inch barrel version weighs around 34 ounces, while a 6-inch .357 Magnum model approaches 40 ounces. Sights consist of fixed or adjustable iron types, with adjustable rear sights standard on later Mark III and Mark V models for enhanced precision. The revolvers are constructed primarily from , offered in blued or finishes, and the Mark III series incorporates springs for improved durability and production efficiency.
SpecificationDetails
Calibers.22 LR, .22 WMR, .38 Special, .357 Magnum
Barrel Lengths4–8 inches (102–203 mm); common: 4 in., 6 in. (2 in. on variants like Lawman)
Frame SizesE-frame or I-frame (original), J-frame (Mark III), V-frame (Mark V, similar to S&W K-frame)
Weight (Unloaded)34–40 oz., varying by model and barrel
SightsFixed or adjustable iron sights
Cylinder6-round swing-out
Materials/FinishesSteel frame; blued or nickel; stainless steel springs (Mark III)

History

Development

In the early 1950s, Colt & Company began conceptualizing the Trooper revolver as a lighter and more cost-effective alternative to existing .357 Magnum models, specifically tailored for police work amid growing demands for reliable service handguns. This initiative stemmed from law enforcement feedback highlighting the need for a durable yet economical option that could handle rigorous duty without the premium pricing of higher-end revolvers. The design drew heavily from Colt's established E-frame architecture, used in earlier models like the Official Police, aiming to fill the market gap between the medium-weight Official Police revolver and the upscale Python. Engineering priorities emphasized enhanced durability through reinforced components like a thickened top strap to support adjustable sights, while maintaining affordability with an initial retail price under $100—around $71 at launch—to appeal to budget-conscious departments. Compatibility with .38 Special ammunition was a core goal, allowing officers to use less powerful rounds for training and while retaining the capability for .357 Magnum when needed. Following internal prototyping, the Trooper underwent extensive testing, including field trials with agencies that provided valuable feedback on and reliability under stress. Positive results from these evaluations paved the way for final approvals and the model's official launch in 1953. Marketed as an accessible "service revolver," it directly addressed the post-World War II landscape of surplus military firearms flooding civilian markets and escalating urban crime rates, positioning to recapture share in the competitive equipment sector.

Production Timeline

The Colt Trooper entered production in 1953, initially chambered in and , with output peaking during the 1950s and 1960s to meet substantial contracts across the . In 1961, the chambering was added alongside the existing and options. The original Trooper series concluded in 1969 with the introduction of the Mark III model, which incorporated a new "J" frame design and updated lockwork with a transfer bar safety mechanism and coil springs, along with optional finishes for improved corrosion resistance, such as introduced later. was added to the Mark III lineup in the 1970s. Mark III production continued through 1983, overlapping with the 1983 launch of the Mark V series, which featured further refinements to the frame and was exclusively offered in . Final assembly of the line ended in 1986 amid a broader industry decline in revolver demand. Serial numbers for early original models typically featured a "T" , aiding in dating firearms from the 1953–1969 period, while later Mark III and V examples used sequential numbering without prefixes in the documented ranges.

Design Features

Frame and Mechanism

The original Colt Trooper utilized a medium-sized , designated as the E-frame from its in 1953 until 1961, which was subsequently updated to the closely related I-frame through the end of production in 1969; this design incorporated a heavy barrel to effectively manage when chambered in . The action featured a double-action with hand-fitted components, ensuring smooth operation, while lockup was achieved through positive pawl engagement that secured the only upon full pull. The Mark III series, introduced in 1969, marked a significant evolution with the adoption of the J-frame, a redesigned medium-frame platform that incorporated a for enhanced drop-safety, supplanting the earlier hammer-block mechanism. This internal safety feature prevented the hammer from contacting the frame-mounted unless the trigger was fully depressed, thereby avoiding accidental discharge if the revolver were dropped. The Mark V models, produced starting in 1982, employed the V-frame, an improved iteration of the J-frame that featured refined for a crisper double-action pull typically measuring 10-12 pounds, alongside options for a ventilated barrel rib to aid in heat dissipation during sustained firing. Like its predecessors, the Trooper series lacked a manual safety, relying instead on these internal mechanisms for , with later short-barrel variants incorporating a shrouded ejector rod to protect the mechanism from impacts and debris.

Sights and Finishes

The Colt Trooper featured a variety of sight configurations tailored to its intended use in or shooting. models were equipped with fixed sights, consisting of a ramp front sight and a notch rear sight for reliable, low-maintenance aiming in applications. variants, by contrast, incorporated an adjustable rear sight with micrometer adjustments for and windage, often using the Colt Accro system, paired with a serrated ramp front sight to enhance precision during competitive or specialized shooting. Grip options on the Trooper varied by model and purpose, emphasizing and . Target models typically came with checkered stocks for a premium feel and better control, while service versions used hard rubber or grips for practicality and reduced slippage under stress. Later iterations, such as those in the Mark V series, included options with finger grooves, like Pachmayr rubber designs, to improve handling during rapid fire. Finishes on the Colt Trooper prioritized both and functionality, with blued as the standard for its deep, protective on most models. Nickel-plated versions offered enhanced corrosion resistance, particularly suited for duty use in harsh environments. Early models featured a distinctive two-tone bluing, with dull on flat surfaces and a black bead-blasted texture on edges for contrast and wear resistance. variant, a budget-oriented Mark V derivative, employed a parkerized finish for a , durable surface that minimized and maintenance needs. Barrel designs included a full-length shroud to protect the ejector rod, with a solid rib on the top for stability in standard configurations. Later models introduced ventilated ribs to dissipate heat and reduce optical during sustained firing, enhancing accuracy in dynamic scenarios. Customization options extended to the Whitetailer models, which featured 8-inch barrels prepped for scope mounts, allowing integration of like low-power variables for applications while maintaining the revolver's robust frame.

Variants

Original Model

The original Colt Trooper, produced from 1953 to 1969, utilized Colt's medium-sized E-frame design initially, transitioning to the I-frame in 1961, with a heavy barrel to handle high-pressure loads effectively. This foundational model was chambered in with a 4-inch barrel only, (1953–1969), and in 4-inch and 6-inch barrel lengths, providing versatility for both target shooting and applications. Two primary sub-variants distinguished the model: the version, equipped with adjustable rear sights and checkered grips to enhance accuracy for competitive and precision shooting, and the variant, featuring fixed sights and simpler checkered or hard rubber grips suited for carry and general use. Finishes were offered in blued steel—initially with a distinctive duo-tone effect on the frame and until the late , transitioning to full polish bluing thereafter—or bright plating for corrosion resistance. The revolver employed a traditional hammer-block mechanism, which prevented the hammer from striking the unless the trigger was fully pulled, but lacked the modern transfer bar system introduced in later designs. Designed specifically to accommodate full-house loads without excessive recoil or frame stress, the original Trooper delivered reliable performance, with the 6-inch barrel variant achieving muzzle velocities of approximately 1,400–1,500 feet per second for standard 158-grain loads, establishing it as a robust medium-frame option for magnum cartridges. Serial numbers were shared with related models like the Officer's Model Match and early revolvers, complicating precise dating but spanning the production run. Approximately 200,000 units were produced during this period. In 1969, production transitioned to the Mark III series, incorporating updated frame and safety features.

Mark III Models

The Mark III series represented the second generation of the Colt Trooper revolver, produced from 1969 to 1983 on Colt's J-frame platform, which incorporated stainless steel coil springs as an industry first to provide superior corrosion resistance and longevity compared to traditional leaf springs. This design shift also included sintered steel components for precise machine-fitting, enhancing overall durability and reliability over the original model's construction. A key safety upgrade was the introduction of transfer-bar lockwork, which prevented accidental discharge if dropped, marking a significant advancement in revolver safety mechanisms. The primary Trooper sub-variant maintained the medium-frame design similar to the original but emphasized premium features, with .357 Magnum as the core chambering and later options in .38 Special, .22 WMR (introduced around 1978), and .22 LR. It featured a heavy, shrouded barrel with a solid top rib for reduced recoil and improved sighting, paired with adjustable rear sights, and was offered in 4-inch, 6-inch, and 8-inch barrel lengths to suit target shooting and general use. Approximately 116,000 units of this sub-variant were manufactured, often serialized with letter suffixes such as J, L, or Y. Complementing the Trooper, the Lawman sub-variant was tailored for applications, chambered exclusively in for its balance of power and controllability in a service . It utilized fixed sights for rapid , matte finishes for durability, and barrel lengths of 2 inches or 4 inches, with early 2-inch models featuring an exposed ejector rod and later productions incorporating a shrouded design for added protection and smoother operation. Like the Trooper, it benefited from the Mark III's internal enhancements, ensuring robust performance under demanding conditions.

Mark V Models

The Mark V series of the Colt Trooper revolvers, produced from 1982 to 1985, utilized a newly designed V-frame that enhanced manufacturing efficiency through cast steel components and delivered a crisper via a shorter action and improved internal geometry, building briefly on the Mark III's transfer bar safety system. This final generation emphasized refinements for both civilian and professional use, with total production falling under 100,000 units across all variants due to the abbreviated run amid shifting market demands. The standard Trooper Mark V was chambered exclusively in and typically featured 4-inch or 6-inch barrels, available with either a ventilated for reduced weight or a solid for added durability; an 8-inch option catered to target shooters. Equipped with adjustable rear sights, a target hammer and for precise control, and wraparound target grips, it offered finishes in bright blued , bright , or satin electroless (Coltguard) to suit various preferences. The Lawman Mark V variant closely mirrored the Mark III in design, prioritizing duty reliability with fixed sights, a service-grade hammer and trigger, and plain grips, while maintaining an unchanged external profile including heavy 4-inch barrels with exposed ejector rods. A compact 2-inch shrouded model was also produced for concealed carry applications, all in .357 Magnum. Limited editions expanded the Mark V's appeal with specialized configurations. The Whitetailer, aimed at hunters, featured an 8-inch barrel with integral scope mounts and a parkerized matte finish for field durability, with approximately 500 units produced. The Boa, released in 1985 as a collaboration with distributor Lew Horton, emulated the Colt Python's aesthetics with a polished royal blue finish, ventilated rib barrel, and target features, limited to 1,200 units total, with 500 in 4-inch and 500 in 6-inch barrel lengths. The Peacekeeper adopted a utilitarian parkerized bead-blasted finish in a military-inspired style, paired with Pachmayr rubber grips bearing gold Colt medallions, and was offered in 4-inch and 6-inch barrels to meet budget-oriented demand during production constraints.

Users and Legacy

Primary Users

The Colt Trooper revolver found its primary market among agencies during the mid-20th century, where it was valued for its reliability when chambered in , allowing officers to carry versatile ammunition loads for both duty rounds and more powerful magnum options. It competed directly with models like the (later Model 10), appealing to departments seeking a robust medium-frame double-action for patrol duties. Notable adopters included the , which issued the Colt Trooper .357 as its most common service weapon in the 1970s. The placed a significant contract for approximately 10,000 Colt Metropolitan Mark III revolvers between 1970 and 1971, equipping officers with this updated variant for urban policing. forces authorized the original Colt Trooper .357 for optional duty carry in the and , though some officers preferred department-issued alternatives. Bulk orders by various U.S. municipal and state entities peaked in the 1950s through the 1970s, reflecting the revolver's role as a standard sidearm before the widespread shift to semi-automatic pistols. Training programs during this era emphasized double-action firing techniques to ensure rapid deployment in high-stress scenarios. The model saw no standard military issue but was occasionally used by federal agents or security personnel requiring a dependable .357 platform. Among civilians, the Colt Trooper gained popularity for , target shooting, and small-game hunting, particularly in variants that offered low recoil and affordability for recreational shooters on a . Its pricing, often lower than models like the , made it accessible to budget-conscious buyers seeking a versatile for home protection or range practice in the 1950s and beyond. International adoption remained limited and U.S.-centric, with sporadic exports to Canadian and police forces for specialized roles, though it never achieved widespread global use.

Discontinuation and Collectibility

The Colt Trooper's production concluded in 1985 with the end of the Mark V series, driven by a broader industry shift toward semi-automatic pistols, particularly the rising popularity of 9mm chamberings among agencies seeking higher capacity and faster reloads. This transition contributed to declining sales of traditional revolvers across manufacturers, including , as departments updated their arsenals in the late 1980s. Compounding these market pressures were 's mounting financial difficulties, including a significant labor in 1985-1986 and accumulating debt that strained operations and led to workforce reductions earlier in the decade. The discontinuation of the Trooper marked the effective closure of Colt's longstanding traditional revolver production line, with the company pivoting away from wheelguns amid these challenges; as of 2025, there have been no official revivals or modern iterations of the model. This shift left a gap in Colt's portfolio until selective reintroductions of other classics, like the in 2020, but remains absent from current offerings. Today, the Colt Trooper holds notable collectibility due to its historical role as a reliable medium-frame that bridged Colt's postwar designs, often regarded as a utilitarian predecessor to the more prestigious with mechanically similar internals but a plainer aesthetic. Original models from the 1950s-1960s typically command values between $500 and $1,500 at , depending on , while scarcer Mark V examples in limited finishes or pristine states can reach up to $3,000. Factors such as overall mechanical integrity, original bluing or plating, and significantly influence pricing. Among enthusiasts, the Trooper is perceived as an underrated "workhorse" of Colt's lineup, with particular interest in the Mark III variant—sometimes compared to the budget-oriented Lawman—for its coil-spring action and no-frills durability that appealed to practical users over flashy alternatives. Collector communities sustain this appreciation through active online forums and regular auctions on platforms like GunBroker, where 2020s sales reflect steady demand for well-preserved specimens amid broader nostalgia for pre-semi-auto era handguns.

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