Both models are distinguished from later Colt revolving long-arms by the presence of a small ring lever located in front of the trigger.

[3] Production of the first model ring lever rifle began in 1837 in the Patent Arms Manufacturing Company's factory in Paterson, New Jersey.

In 1838, the second model ring lever rifle began production and continued until 1841, with a total of about 500 manufactured (serial numbers 1 through 500).

[6] Although neither the First nor second model ring lever rifles saw widespread adoption by any military organization, several were procured by the United States Army and the Texas Navy.

[2] At the request of Lieutenant Colonel William S. Harney of the Second Dragoon Regiment, Colt traveled to Florida with 100 ring lever rifles for the review.

This board of officers advocated equipping select trained men in each company with Colt's rifle, fearing universal employment may cause damage to the guns because of their delicate construction.

[9][10] The availability of multiple shots offered by Colt's rifle was seen as an advantage against the Seminole warriors, who had learned the vulnerability of troops who had already fired the conventional single-shot military arms of the day.

[13] Later in July 1839, however, a surprise Seminole attack led to the loss of thirty ring lever rifles, though fourteen were eventually recovered.

Harney commented on Colt's ring lever rifle favorably, stating: "I honestly believe that, but for these arms, the Indians would now be luxuriating in the Everglades of Florida.

"[5] Colt capitalized on Harney's testimony to produce a report featuring the endorsement and various statistics about the ring lever rifles.

Henry claimed that when "passing through Indian country, I always felt myself safer with one of your rifles in my hands, than if I was attended by a body of ten or fifteen men armed with the common musket or carbine.

"[15] In spite of the personal endorsements Colt gathered, he received no more contracts for ring lever rifles from the U.S. Army.