Could this be an early USPtFA

[The Pathfinder]

http://www.gunbroker.com/item/561567765

Found this on Gunbroker. Definitely not a Colt frame, but could it possibly be an early USPtFA gun fitted with a Colt Barrel? According to the seller there are no Italian proof marks anywhere on it. Opinions?

[Coffinmaker]

I won't venture a guess on the entire gun, but unless the photography is real really wonky, that is a Pietta Grip Set on it.

Coffinmaker

[GaryG]

My money is on the ASM with the Colt barrel

[Dave T]

I saw that gun and was briefly attracted because of the BP frame. The goofy back-trap configuration turned me off, which brings to mind a question. Anyone know of a source of more "Colt like" back-straps and trigger-guards, as spare or replacement parts?

Dave

[GaryG]

You may want to look at Pietta or Uberti.  I think the Piettas are closer.  VTI Gun Parts sells both

[Coffinmaker]

Up until the more recent production runs, the Pietta Gripsets were .......... wonky.  The butt of the old build Pietta 1851/1873 guns looked
more like a Trombone Bell than a pistol grip.  New manufacture Pietta, looks very .......... Colt.

Pietta Gripsets require quite a bit of fitting to mount on a USFA, Colt or Uberti.  Uberti and USFA are very compatable, however, the chances a Gripset from one will simply "drop-on" another is ......... remote.  Each Gripframe and Stocks Set are fit to each individual gun
during manufacture.

Coffinmaker

[The Pathfinder]

Looking at the pictures it's clear it isn't a Colt. The grips did look wonky but the only Pietta I have has more Colt style and not that flare at the rear. I was looking at the knurling pattern on the hammer and it looks just like the pattern on a Nettleton USFA that is also on Gunbroker, and without any proof marks visible is why I asked. I don't plan on bidding as I have way more than enough 7 1/2" 45s (I know, I know, you can never have too many).

[Coffinmaker]

Remember folks, everyone wants to find a Rembrandt in their attic.  Or cheaply priced from someone else's attic.  Then there are those
whom try real hard to peddle .......... a faque, or is it Faux??  Lie like a Rug to snare the unsuspecting Rembrandt seeker.

Coffinmaker

Some years back, is was quite common to find Defrarbed, re-marked and antique'd reproductions being peddled to the unwary as
Gen-U-Wine real "old Westy" Colts.  Many even included a carefully beat up gun belt. 
Be Careful Out There

[yahoody]

My money is on the ASM with the Colt barrel

Mine as well.