Colt 1907 Trials Pistol

Published on August 19, 2016
Duration: 14:29

This video provides an in-depth look at the Colt 1907 Trials Pistol, a significant precursor to the M1911. Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons details its design evolution from John Browning's earlier work, its participation in US Army trials, and the mechanical issues that led to its eventual refinement into the M1911. The expert analysis highlights specific markings, modifications, and the unique twin-link barrel system, offering a deep dive for firearm enthusiasts.

Quick Summary

The Colt 1907 Trials Pistol was a critical evolutionary step towards the M1911, undergoing US Army trials that revealed mechanical issues like sear breakage and feeding jams. These problems led to 1909 retrofits, including a beefier sear and enlarged ejection port, moving it closer to the final M1911 design. Its unique twin-link barrel system differed from the M1911's tipping barrel mechanism.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt 1907 Trials Pistol
  2. 01:001906 US Government Trials & Colt 1905
  3. 02:30Field Trials and Competition with Savage
  4. 04:20Mechanical Issues and 1909 Retrofits
  5. 06:00Disposition of Trial Pistols to Bannerman
  6. 07:43Visual Features: Grip Safety & Indicators
  7. 09:31Markings, Serial Number, and Inspector Stamp
  8. 11:011909 Improvements Towards M1911
  9. 12:48Mechanical Operation: Twin-Link System Explained

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the significance of the Colt 1907 Trials Pistol?

The Colt 1907 Trials Pistol was a vital developmental step towards the iconic Colt M1911. It incorporated John Browning's designs and underwent US Army trials, facing mechanical challenges that led to crucial improvements, ultimately shaping the M1911's final form.

What were the main mechanical issues with the Colt 1907?

The Colt 1907 suffered from significant reliability problems, notably sear breakage and persistent feeding and ejection jams. These issues necessitated substantial retrofits in 1909, including beefier sears and enlarged ejection ports, to enhance its functionality.

How did the Colt 1907's barrel system differ from the M1911?

The Colt 1907 featured a twin-link system where the barrel dropped vertically while staying parallel to the bore axis. This contrasts with the M1911's system, which uses a single link at the rear and a bushing at the front, allowing the barrel to tip.

Where did the Colt 1907 trial pistols end up?

After military trials, many Colt 1907 pistols were returned to Springfield Armory and subsequently sold in a batch to the Bannerman Company in New York. Bannerman then sold these pistols individually to the public.

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