Colt's Prototype Post-War Pocket Hammerless Model M

Published on April 3, 2018
Duration: 8:50

This review details Colt's rare post-war 'New Model M' prototype, a modernized successor to the 1903/1908 Pocket Hammerless pistols. It highlights design changes like a 1911-style magazine release and safety, and discusses the challenges Colt faced in resuming production after WWII. The prototype, marked 'GX 2501-1', never reached mass production, representing a unique piece of Colt's experimental history.

Quick Summary

The Colt New Model M prototype was a post-war attempt to modernize the 1903/1908 Pocket Hammerless line. It featured 1911-style controls like a button magazine release and enlarged safety, but never reached mass production due to post-war manufacturing challenges.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt New Model M Prototype
  2. 01:07Post-War Production Challenges
  3. 02:39Design Comparison: Prototype vs. Standard Model M
  4. 04:21Mechanical & Control Updates (1911 Style)
  5. 05:08Disassembly and Internal Mechanics
  6. 07:08Markings: 'GX 2501-1' Serial Number
  7. 07:29Conclusion: Never Reached Mass Production

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Colt New Model M prototype intended to be?

The Colt New Model M prototype was intended to be a modernized successor to Colt's popular 1903 and 1908 Pocket Hammerless models. It was designed to update the line with features more akin to the M1911 pistol.

Why did Colt develop a new Model M after WWII?

Colt struggled to resume production of the original Model M post-WWII due to worn tooling and the retirement of skilled workers. This led them to explore a modernized version, resulting in the New Model M prototype.

What are the key design differences in the Colt New Model M prototype?

The prototype features a wider profile, a more curved backstrap, and a changed magazine angle. Notably, it incorporates a 1911-style button magazine release, an enlarged safety, and improved sights compared to earlier models.

What does the 'GX' marking on the prototype signify?

The 'GX' marking on the prototype's serial number ('GX 2501-1') stands for 'Gun, Experimental.' This designation was used by Colt for firearms undergoing testing and development before potential production.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →