early 1914 Production WWI Colt Model of 1911 U.S. Army .45 ACP PistolOur Assessment: This a nice 1914 vintage Colt Model of 1911 U.S. Army. It has proper features and markings for its shipment date of January 28 when it was originally sent to Rock Island Arsenal, including a long-leg guide rod and pre 1913 patent date marked slide. The pistol retains much of its original blued finish, altogether a nice example of a 120 year old American service pistol!
Make: Colt
Model: 1911 U.S. Army
Serial Number: 61881
Year of Manufacture: 1914
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic Detachable Magazine Fed
Barrel Length: 5"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a "U"-notch dovetailed to the rear of the slide.
Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are double-diamond checkered walnut panels. The grips have light handling wear with a patch of more notable wear on the right panel toward the rear. The grips have some scattered nicks. The checkering is generally well defined. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore has semi-bright lands and scattered erosion in the grooves. The rifling is well defined. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 7 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 75% of its metal finish. Most of the balance is handling wear in the grip areas and thinning at edges. There are some other spots of more minor wear, light nicks and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a more thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a single 7-round two-tone magazine with lanyard loop floorplate.
CA LEGALITY: C&R: YES, CA PPT: NO.
HANDGUNS/PISTOLS