In fact, they became the most prolific of all Colt cap-and-ball revolvers, with 15,000 Baby Dragoons produced before being discontinued in 1850, plus 340,000 Model 1849s, which were made until 1873.

The Colt 1st Model Dragoon was adopted in 1848 for the U.S. Mounted Rifles. When the Mounted Rifles became the U.S. Cavalry, they were armed with a mix of 1st, 2nd and 3rd Model Dragoon pistols.

Colt's revolver was the first truly mass produced item made using modern industrial techniques. This Colt Dragoon was made in Colts London factory in 1853 in readiness for the Crimean War.

Colt's revolver was the first truly mass produced item made using modern industrial techniques. This Colt Dragoon was made in Colts London factory in 1853 in readiness for the Crimean War.