Dragoon revolvers evolved as improvements on the Colt Walker. Eli Whitney manufactured the first run of 1848 Dragoons for Samuel Colt. The Dragoon revolvers weighed less and had shorter cylinders and improved loading levers.

The gunmakers continued to make small improvements that set each Dragoon model apart.

The 3rd Model Dragoon Revolver features a case hardened frame, brass backstrap and a brass triggerguard.  Barrel is 7.5 inches in length and is .44 caliber.  Round trigger guard makes the 3rd Model distinctive.  Loading lever latch prevents the loading lever from falling during firing.