1950 Colt Detective Special Review and History

Published on February 3, 2016
Duration: 13:36

This review of the 1950 Colt Detective Special, presented by GunGuyTV, offers an expert look at a classic revolver. It covers the firearm's history, unique mechanical features like clockwise cylinder rotation and a pull-back blast shield cylinder release, and its place in police service. The presenter highlights its value as a collector's item and provides insights into its shooting characteristics and historical significance, including a detailed backstory of a specific restored example.

Quick Summary

The 1950 Colt Detective Special is a 6-shot revolver known for its clockwise cylinder rotation and unique pull-back blast shield cylinder release. While a valuable collector's item, it is not rated for +P ammunition and its compact size can present grip challenges for larger hands.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Channel Info
  2. 00:25Colt Detective Special History
  3. 01:25Police Revolver History & Competition
  4. 02:08Detective Special Origins
  5. 02:43Fitzgerald Special Customization
  6. 03:46Factory Adaptation & Unique Features
  7. 05:02Colt Revolver Mechanics
  8. 06:33Collectibility & Ammunition
  9. 07:36Shooting Experience & Grip
  10. 09:30Gun's Backstory & Restoration
  11. 10:52Restoration & Historical Value
  12. 11:51Conclusion & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of the Colt Detective Special?

Colt began manufacturing the Detective Special in 1927 and ceased production in 1986. The specific model reviewed was made in 1950, a period when Colt revolvers were highly regarded for their quality and triggers, often carried by police officers.

What are the unique mechanical features of the Colt Detective Special?

The Colt Detective Special features a clockwise cylinder rotation, unlike many other revolvers. Its cylinder release mechanism is also unique, requiring the user to pull back on the blast shield to open the cylinder.

Can the 1950 Colt Detective Special safely fire +P ammunition?

No, the 1950 Colt Detective Special is not suitable for use with +P ammunition. Firing +P loads can cause damage to the firearm due to the increased pressure they generate.

What is a Fitzgerald Special?

A Fitzgerald Special refers to a custom modification of revolvers, popularized in the 1920s by J.H. Fitzgerald. These modifications typically included shortening the barrel to 2 inches, bobbing the hammer, and cutting off the front of the trigger guard for quicker access.

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