Of Colt's Model 1877 double-action revolvers, the Lightning is the most well-known, chambered for the .38 Colt cartridge.

The Colt Single Action Army revolver, introduced in 1873, became a symbol of power and American expansion, used by both outlaws and lawmen on the frontier.

1825 ca. - Percussion-cap guns are in general use. 1830 - The back action lock appears. 1835 - The first Colt revolver. Samuel Colt developed the first mass-produced, multi-shot, revolving firearms.