- Joined
- Jul 15, 2020
- Messages
- 421
I acquired this rather curious handgun a few years ago. At the time, I assumed it was a run-of-the-mill 1st issue nickel plated Colt Detective Special. The barrel says its a Detective Special, and the serial number identifies it as being of 1931 manufacture.
I did some research on these models, and found that the rounded butt, which my revolver has, was not introduced in the Detective Special until the following year. Also, the ejector rod looked a bit longer than normal on a 1st issue. The nickel plating is close to 100% intact, which is somewhat unusual for a 90 year old revolver. Barrel rifling is perfect. This prompted me to send off for an authentication letter from Colt. I also had a conversation with a Colt historian.
Surprisingly, the letter from Colt indicated that the gun was originally a Police Positive Special model with a 4" barrel and a blue finish. So at some point it was re-barreled with a Detective Special barrel and refinished in nickel. I don't know if the 1931 Police Positive was available with the round grips. If not, then this gun had the frame modified as well as the replacement barrel.
Just goes to show that you can't judge a book (or gun) by its cover.
I did some research on these models, and found that the rounded butt, which my revolver has, was not introduced in the Detective Special until the following year. Also, the ejector rod looked a bit longer than normal on a 1st issue. The nickel plating is close to 100% intact, which is somewhat unusual for a 90 year old revolver. Barrel rifling is perfect. This prompted me to send off for an authentication letter from Colt. I also had a conversation with a Colt historian.
Surprisingly, the letter from Colt indicated that the gun was originally a Police Positive Special model with a 4" barrel and a blue finish. So at some point it was re-barreled with a Detective Special barrel and refinished in nickel. I don't know if the 1931 Police Positive was available with the round grips. If not, then this gun had the frame modified as well as the replacement barrel.
Just goes to show that you can't judge a book (or gun) by its cover.
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