old Colt identification

I need some help to identify this Colt...it was my grandfathers and I estimate he purchased it sometime between 1914 and 1920

on the top of the barrel is printed
COLT'S PT F A MFG CO HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.
PATENTED AUG.5.1885 NOV.6.88 MAR.5.95.

on the left side of the barrel is printed
COLT. D.A. 38

serial numbers on the butt are 255
559
B 22

it has a 6" barrel / Blade & Notch sights
so....what is this....and what was it originally designed to shoot?
......my estimate is that is an 1895 New Army .38 Long Colt
thanks guys
UPDATED: I found another source which tells me that this is a "second issue" 1895 New Army and that it was chambered for the .38 Special.....
I have been shooting 125gr cast light loads in the revolver

atr,

Nice revolver. I know next to nothing about these old Colt .38's; but I think you are right that it is chambered for the .38 Long Colt. I have never heard if these are safe for smokeless loads or not, but I would not want to destroy my Grandfather's gun.

With the time it has been in your family, I would spring for a factory letter for it. I am not sure if those are available from Colt or the Buffalo Bill Museum.


Robert

I'm sure there are Colt collectors sites on the net that could give you the definitive answer, but AFAIK that's a 38 Long Colt, yes.

It looks like a "New Army / New Navy" and most likely is a 38 Colt long

http://proofhouse.com/

has a section for colt dating of serial numbers. might be some good reading and help to date.

thanks jt.....that reference you gave me was VERY helpful,,,it indicates that this Colt was manufactured between 1905 and 1906
my reference book indicates that this would be a "second issue" Colt, and that the
.38 special was introduced in 1904......