Colt Tries To Make a Service Pistol: The Model 1971

Published on April 10, 2018
Duration: 10:23

This guide details the field stripping procedure for the Colt Model 1971 prototype, a precursor to the Colt SSP. It covers removing the slide, recoil spring, and barrel, highlighting its design differences from the M1911, such as a barrel ramp instead of a swinging link. The process is demonstrated by Ian McCollum, showcasing Colt's early 1970s efforts to modernize military service pistols.

Quick Summary

The Colt Model 1971 was a 1970s prototype aiming to modernize the military service pistol, evolving into the Colt SSP. It featured a stainless steel construction for improved maintenance, double-stack magazines for higher capacity, and a DA/SA trigger with a slide-mounted safety. The design also explored experimental concepts like a multi-projectile 'Salvo' system.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Colt's Modernization Program
  2. 00:48The Model 1971 Prototype
  3. 01:54Development History
  4. 02:23Key Design Features
  5. 03:09Trigger and Safety Mechanics
  6. 05:14Disassembly and Internals
  7. 08:09Experimental Salvo Project

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of the Colt Model 1971 prototype?

The Colt Model 1971 was an internal prototype developed in the early 1970s by Colt engineers. Its aim was to upgrade the military service pistol and explore Personal Defense Weapon (PDW) concepts, serving as a precursor to the Colt SSP.

What were the key design improvements of the Colt Model 1971 over the M1911?

Key improvements focused on maintenance (stainless steel construction), increased capacity via double-stack magazines, and enhanced safety features like a DA/SA trigger system, differentiating it significantly from the M1911's design lineage.

Did the Colt Model 1971 have any experimental features?

Yes, the Model 1971 explored an experimental 'Salvo' multi-projectile system. This concept involved firing three stacked bullets simultaneously from a specialized squeeze-bore barrel, representing a highly unconventional approach to firearm technology.

Who developed the Colt Model 1971?

The Colt Model 1971 pistol was developed in 1971 by Colt engineer Robert Roy. The design was patented in 1972 and shared mechanical influences from Petter and SIG designs of the era.

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