Project Description
!!!!!SOLD!!!!! This is a 1/2 scale Colt first model dragoon revolver made by master miniature maker Emile Ripoli of Washington state, probably about 1980. This piece was beautifully hand engraved by Roger Sampson about 1995. 6 15/16″ long overall with a 3 19/32″ part octagon part round barrel of about .193 caliber. 100% fully functional and capable of being fired, given the proper percussion caps, powder charge, and lead balls. This early dragoon has the flat back frame which is different from the earlier Colt Walker frame, but still uses the round cylinder stops in the cylinder like the Walker. Serial number 2 is stamped by Mr. Ripoli into the bottom rear of the barrel lug, the bottom front of the frame, the bottom front of the triggerguard, the bottom of the buttstrap, and the side of the cylinder. Blue and case coloried steel parts, the brass triggerguard and backstrap are silver plated, all of which was done by Doug Turnbull of New York. Roger did a magnificent job engraving this piece. The barrel lug, the pivot part of the loading lever, frame, triggerguard, backstrap, and hammer are beautifully hand engraved in very tight and detailed scrolls. Roger engraved the top flat of the barrel lug with the proper Colt barrel address which reads properly when held in the left hand. (Col. Colt was left handed). Roger also engraved the Texas Ranger and Indian battle scene on the cylinder along with the “USMR” and “COLT’S PATENT” banners. The backstrap is engraved in script “Presented by, Coln Samuel Colt” in two lines. The left side of the barrel lug is beautifully engraved with a detailed oval bust portrait of Col. Colt. Straight grained walnut one piece grip. Mr. Ripoli reportedly made nine of these pistols, I have seen or sold four of them including this one. I remember seeing this revolver when it was still in the white before Roger engraved it, and being there when the owner showed it to the public for the first time. This is truly a wonderful piece and worthy of the finest of collections, miniature or otherwise! Stock # FF-3. !!!!!SOLD!!!!!
