I Have This Old Gun: Colt's New Service Revolver

Published on July 19, 2018
Duration: 6:41

The Colt New Service revolver, produced from 1898 to 1943, is highlighted as a pinnacle of American firearm manufacturing. It was designed for soldiers, outdoorsmen, and police, and served as a replacement for the less effective Colt .38. Key features include the positive lock safety mechanism introduced around 1909. The New Service was adopted by the US Army, Navy, and Marine Corps, with specific modifications like a smaller grip for the Marines. It was manufactured in 11 calibers, with over 356,000 units produced, and saw significant use as the M1917 revolver in World War I. The video also touches on collector interest, particularly in 'Fitz Special' variants.

Quick Summary

The Colt New Service revolver, manufactured from 1898 to 1943, is celebrated for its exceptional craftsmanship. Developed to replace the less effective Colt .38, it featured a positive lock safety and was adopted by the US Army, Navy, and Marines, serving as the M1917 revolver in WWI. Over 356,000 were produced in 11 calibers.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction to Colt New Service
  2. 00:18American Manufacturing Quality
  3. 01:02Development and Purpose
  4. 01:25Colt Modifications and Positive Lock
  5. 01:44Military Adoption (Army, Navy, Marines)
  6. 02:36New York State Police Decommissioning
  7. 03:23Personal Anecdote and Fascination
  8. 04:27Production Numbers and Calibers
  9. 04:43Military Use (M1917 Revolver)
  10. 05:01Comparison to Single Action Army
  11. 05:27Collector's Facet: Fitz Specials
  12. 06:15Conclusion: Finest Hartford Makers Guns

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Colt New Service revolver manufactured?

The Colt New Service revolver was manufactured from 1898 up through World War II, with its production run concluding around 1943. It is considered one of Colt's finest firearms from that era.

What was the primary reason for developing the Colt New Service?

The Colt New Service was developed as a replacement for the Colt .38, which had proven ineffective against the Moros in the Philippines. The army desired a heavier caliber firearm for improved stopping power.

What notable safety feature was incorporated into the Colt New Service?

Around 1909, the Colt New Service incorporated a 'positive lock' safety mechanism. This feature was designed to lock the hammer between the hammer and the frame, preventing accidental ignition if the gun was dropped.

How many Colt New Service revolvers were produced, and in what calibers?

Over 356,000 Colt New Service revolvers were made between 1898 and 1943. They were produced in 11 different calibers, with common ones including .38 and .45.

What are 'Fitz Specials' in the context of Colt revolvers?

'Fitz Specials' are a collector's variant, often based on the Colt New Service or Detective Special, modified by John Henry Fitzgerald. These typically feature a shortened barrel, removed front sight, altered trigger guard, bobbed hammer, and a round butt.

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