6/18/20 - This is a Colt New Service Revolver issued to the North-West Mountain Police in 1918. Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald first began planning a permanent force to patrol the North-West Territories after the Dominion of Canada purchased the territory from the Hudson's Bay Company. Reports from army officers surveying the territory led to the recommendation that a mounted force of between 100 to 150 mounted riflemen could maintain law and order. The Prime Minister first announced the force as the "North West Mounted Rifles". However, officials in the United States raised concerns that an armed force along the border was a prelude to a military buildup. Macdonald then renamed the force the North-West Mounted Police (NWMP) when formed in 1873. This particular example is marked "NWMP 160" on the back strap. That is a police unit marking. This gun has retained roughly 70-75% of its original finish. Most of the finish loss in on the straps and at the base of the frame near the trigger guard. There is also wear around the muzzle and on the front sight. There are very small dings on the gun throughout. There is wear on the high edges of the cylinder and a roll mark. The original grips are excellent. All matching. The cylinder is tight and the action is smooth. Mint bore.
