Colt 1909 (pre-1911 developmental pistol)

Published on November 11, 2015
Duration: 11:04

This video provides an expert-level look at the rare Colt 1909, a crucial developmental pistol preceding the iconic 1911. Ian from Forgotten Weapons details its unique double swinging link action, vertical ejection, and heel magazine release, contrasting it with its predecessors and successors like the Colt 1905 and 1911 A1. The guide covers disassembly and highlights key evolutionary differences in safeties, extractors, and frame design, emphasizing the 1909's rarity with only 23 examples produced.

Quick Summary

The Colt 1909 is a rare developmental pistol preceding the 1911, featuring a double swinging link action, vertical ejection, and heel magazine release. With only 23 made, it offers unique insights into John Browning's early semi-automatic pistol designs tested by Springfield Armory.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt 1909 Preview
  2. 01:00Pistol Models Overview (1905, 1909, 1911 A1)
  3. 02:11Colt 1905/1909 Action and Features
  4. 03:38Colt 1911 A1 Improvements
  5. 04:30Frame and Barrel Comparison
  6. 05:12Ejection System Evolution
  7. 05:40Firing Pin Plate and Safeties
  8. 07:41Grip Angle Evolution
  9. 08:01Disassembly and Internal Parts Comparison
  10. 09:41Colt 1909 Rarity and History

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Colt 1909 a significant firearm in pistol development?

The Colt 1909 is significant as a rare developmental pistol preceding the iconic 1911. It showcases Browning's early experimentation with designs like the double swinging link action and vertical ejection, offering crucial insights into the evolution of semi-automatic pistol technology.

How does the Colt 1909's action differ from the Colt 1911 A1?

The Colt 1909 utilizes a double swinging link mechanism where the barrel lifts forward, while the Colt 1911 A1 employs a single-link tilting barrel. This fundamental difference impacts the unlocking and cycling of the action.

What are the key external features that distinguish the Colt 1909 from later models like the 1911 A1?

The Colt 1909 is distinguished by its heel magazine release, external extractor, and a vertical ejection port on the top of the slide. In contrast, the 1911 A1 features a trigger guard magazine release, internal extractor, and side ejection.

How rare is the Colt 1909 pistol?

The Colt 1909 is exceptionally rare, with only 23 examples ever produced, bearing serial numbers from 0 to 22. This limited production run makes it a highly sought-after piece for collectors and historians.

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