I recently came in to possession of this Colt 3rd Mod Dragoon. Before I bought it, I studied the 20 pictures and researched Colt Dragoons on the internet. From what I found I was willing to purchase it with no guarantee it was original. The numbers and markings are all in the correct place, the bore is left hand gain twist, unlike any modern copies or even 2nd Gen Colts.
Here's the rub. I've showed it to several local "experts" and got mixed opinions. Two said it was a very well done copy, two said it was original, two said they weren't experienced with the dragoons to tell for sure and one said it was a copy using some original parts. Apparently the lettering is too crisp to be 135 years old.
My question, Where do I go or what can I do to get an official decision one way or the other? I'd really like to know.Attachment 187401Attachment 187402Attachment 187403Attachment 187404