Beginner Class on Classic Military Colts

Published on April 4, 2025
Duration: 22:10

This video provides a beginner's primer on classic military Colt firearms, focusing on the Single Action Army and the 1911/1911 A1 models. It highlights key inspection points for collectors, such as matching serial numbers, inspector marks, action timing (four clicks), and original finish. The presenter emphasizes that while restorations can make guns visually appealing, original, matching examples command higher values, especially for military-issued pieces.

Quick Summary

When inspecting classic military Colt firearms, look for matching serial numbers, original finishes (blued or Parkerized depending on era), and correct inspector markings. For Single Action Armies, listen for four distinct clicks when cycling the action. For 1911s, verify barrel markings and numbered parts on early WWII models.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Disclaimer
  2. 00:42Classic Single Action Armies
  3. 01:10Inspecting Single Action Armies
  4. 02:19Inspector Proofs & Markings
  5. 03:03Action & Timing Checks
  6. 03:32Cartouches & Dates
  7. 04:00Wear & Finish
  8. 04:42Refinished vs. Original
  9. 05:05Restorations Explained
  10. 05:19Commercial vs. Military
  11. 06:21Restoration Value vs. Original
  12. 07:44Key Inspection Points Summary
  13. 08:00Colt Pocket Pistol Mystery
  14. 09:40John Fleece Pocket Pistol
  15. 10:53USFA Replicas & Cutaways
  16. 11:16USFA Cutaway 1911
  17. 13:50Primer on 1911 & 1911 A1 Colts
  18. 14:01Commercial vs. Military 1911 Finishes
  19. 15:05WWI vs. WWII 1911 Differences
  20. 16:011911 Inspector Stamps
  21. 16:32Barrel Markings & Replacements
  22. 17:15Barrel Marking Variations
  23. 17:36WWII Colt 45 Auto Barrel
  24. 18:15Magazine Markings
  25. 19:08Numbered Barrels (WWII)
  26. 19:22Checking Barrel Numbers Easily
  27. 20:07Numbered Slides (Early WWII)
  28. 20:41Value & Investment
  29. 21:37Conclusion & Next Steps

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key indicators of an original military Colt Single Action Army?

Original military Colt Single Action Armies should feature matching serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. Look for a US marking on the frame, inspector proof marks (like 'H.N.' or 'A'), and the last four digits of the serial number on the cylinder. The action should produce four distinct clicks when cycled.

How can I tell the difference between a WWI and WWII Colt 1911?

World War I Colt 1911s typically have diamond-patterned wooden grips and a high-polish blued finish. World War II models generally feature plastic grips and a Parkerized finish. Inspector stamps are also present on military WWI models.

What should I look for on a Colt 1911 barrel to ensure it's original?

For Colt 1911 and 1911 A1 pistols, the barrel should be marked 'Colt 45 Auto'. On early World War II production (approx. 1938-1942), the barrel should also be numbered and match the slide. Replacement barrels are common and can affect value.

Do restored Colt firearms hold their value?

While restorations can make firearms visually appealing, they generally do not increase the value of classic military Colts as significantly as original condition. For some firearms, like Lugers, restorations can even halve the value, whereas for Colts, the price difference between restored and original is less extreme but still substantial.

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