A Few Last Changes Before Perfection: The Colt Models 1909 & 1910

Published on April 15, 2020
Duration: 9:44

This guide details the evolutionary steps between the Colt Models 1909 and 1910, crucial prototypes leading to the iconic M1911. Expert Ian McCollum highlights key mechanical and ergonomic changes, including the barrel locking system, magazine release, and grip angle, based on military feedback and trial performance. The information is presented with high technical detail, drawing from physical disassembly and historical trial data.

Quick Summary

The Colt Models 1909 and 1910 were critical iterative steps in the development of the M1911 pistol. Key refinements included a new barrel locking system with a bushing and single link pin, a frame-mounted thumb magazine release replacing the heel release, and an angled grip on the 1910 to improve rapid-fire accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt 1909 & 1910
  2. 00:30Context: 1907 Trials & Browning's Solution
  3. 01:50Mechanical Evolution: Barrel Locking System
  4. 03:00Ergonomic Changes: Magazine Release
  5. 04:101909 Trial Performance & Production
  6. 05:22The Model 1910: Grip Angle & Refinements
  7. 06:27Addition of the Thumb Safety
  8. 08:14Final Adoption of the M1911 Design

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the key improvements in the Colt Model 1909 compared to the 1907 trials?

Following the 1907 trials, John Browning developed a new locking system for the Model 1909, significantly improving reliability. It suffered only one malfunction in a 500-round test, a vast improvement over the 1907's 24 malfunctions in the same test.

How did the Colt Model 1910 address issues found in the Model 1909?

The Model 1910 introduced an angled grip, correcting the tendency of the 1909's straighter grip to cause low shooting during rapid fire. It also featured an internal extractor and a simplified mainspring.

What mechanical changes defined the transition from early Colt automatics to the 1909/1910 models?

The shift from a dual-pin barrel attachment (seen in 1905/1907) to a modern system featuring a barrel bushing and a single link pin was a major mechanical improvement, allowing the barrel to tilt rather than drop linearly.

Why was the thumb safety added to the Colt Model 1910?

The thumb safety was added to the Model 1910 after cavalry requested a feature that would allow them to safely re-holster a cocked weapon using only one hand, a crucial ergonomic and safety consideration.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →