Colt 1907 Trials Pistol

Published on August 19, 2016
Duration: 14:29

The Colt 1907 Trials Pistol represents a crucial evolutionary step towards the M1911, incorporating John Browning's early designs. It faced significant challenges during US military trials, including sear breakage and ejection issues, leading to modifications like enlarged ejection ports and improved sears. Despite initial skepticism from cavalry troops favoring revolvers, the 1907's development paved the way for the iconic 1911.

Quick Summary

The Colt 1907 Trials Pistol was an evolutionary step towards the M1911, featuring a twin-link barrel system. It faced issues like sear breakage and ejection jams, leading to 1909 retrofits including stronger sears, enlarged ejection ports, and a modified grip safety.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Colt 1907
  2. 01:001906 US Government Trials
  3. 02:30Field Trials and Competition
  4. 04:20Mechanical Issues and Retrofits
  5. 06:00Disposition of Trial Pistols
  6. 07:43Visual Features: Safety and Indicators
  7. 09:31Markings and Serial Numbers
  8. 11:011909 Improvements
  9. 12:48Mechanical Operation: Twin-Link System

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main mechanical issues with the Colt 1907 Trials Pistol?

The Colt 1907 suffered from significant sear breakage and persistent feeding and ejection jams during its trials. These issues led Colt to retrofit the pistols with stronger sears and enlarged ejection ports in 1909.

How did the Colt 1907 pistol differ mechanically from the later M1911?

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

What was the fate of the Colt 1907 trial pistols after military testing?

By late 1911, most trial pistols were returned to Springfield Armory. Due to refurbishment costs, the Army sold 185 of them in a batch to the Bannerman Company, which then sold them individually to the public.

What specific modifications were made to the Colt 1907 in 1909?

In 1909, Colt retrofitted the 1907 pistols with beefier sears to prevent breakage and enlarged ejection ports to improve reliability. A small 'tail' was also added to the grip safety to prevent hammer bite.

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