Colt Model Bankers Special .38 S&W 2" Double Action Revolver & Box
Our Assessment:Introduced in 1928 as a revolver for those who needed something small and quickly deployed, such as bank employees, the Bankers' Special is a small-frame, 6-shot revolver chambered for the .38 Colt Police Positive cartridge. This the same cartridge as .38 S&W, but Colt was loath to mark their primary competitor's name on their products or advertising. This short cartridge allowed for a shorter cylinder, reducing size and weight. This example is in Fine condition, with more wear from storage than actual use. These revolvers are not common, and so make a great addition to a Colt collection. It would also certainly serve its intended purpose just as well today as it would have in 1935. Please see our photos and good luck!
Make:Colt
Model:Bankers Special
Serial Number:370996
Year of Manufacture:1935
Caliber:.38 CAL
Action Type:Double Action Revolver With Swing Out Cylinder
Markings:The left side of the barrel is marked "38", "BANKERS / SPECIAL". The right side of the barrel is marked "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A. / PAT'D AUG.5.1884 JULY 4.1905 OCT.5.1926". The crane cut and the crane are marked with the serial number. The side plate is marked with a "Rampant Colt" logo.
Barrel Length:2"
Sights / Optics:The front sight is a round blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch at the rear of the top strap. The edges of the topstrap groove are serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition:The grips are two piece checkered walnut with silver-colored Colt medallions at their tops. The grips have light handling wear with a few scattered light marks and a spot of white paint on the front edge of the left panel. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish:Blue
Finish Originality:Original
Bore Condition:The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition:This pistol retains about 95% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at some edges, most notable at the muzzle on each side. There are a few scattered minor nicks and scuffs with some scattered spots of faint surface oxidation. The action has minor operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics:The action functions correctly.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories:Original serial numbered box is included.CA LEGALITY:C&R: YES, CA DEALER Transferable: YES, CA PPT: YES.
HANDGUNS/PISTOLS