According to the Colt Archives serial number database, this Trooper MK III was made in 1971. SPECS: 4" Ribbed barrel with shrouded extractor rod, Patridge-style pinned front sight, adjustable rear sight pinned to the channel, checkered walnut Presentation Target grips with Rampant Colt silver medallion inlays, bright chrome finish, grooved rear strap and 6-shot swing-out cylinder. CONDITION: The nickel finish has a flaking spot on the cylinder & on the crane, but otherwise this gun is in beautiful condition, has a sharp/ clean bore and appears to be in good working order. HISTORY: Introduced to the firearms market in 1953, the double-action Colt Trooper was designed with the intention of addressing the medium frame revolver market as law enforcement officers had long complained about the weight of earlier models. The Trooper was made in three different variants/production runs - Original Trooper 1953 - 1969, Trooper MK III 1969 - 1983 & Trooper MKV 1982 - 1986. Intended to be the first major advancement of Colt's designs since the beginning of the 20th century, the MK IIIs used a new "J" frame and had no parts interchangeability with older models. The new revolvers employed transfer-bar lock work system so that the revolver could fire only if the trigger was deliberately pulled completely to the rear. The springs used in the MK IIIs internals were also an improvement. Unlike the older flat style, they were coiled and made entirely of corrosion-resistant stainless steel. FREE SHIPPING & NO PROCESSING FEES.