Colt Z40 Pistol #1

Published on November 15, 2015
Duration: 13:57

The Colt Z40, a rare collaboration between Colt and CZ, was designed in the 1990s to comply with the Assault Weapons Ban by resembling a 1911 while incorporating CZ 75 internals. Despite its high-quality construction and good trigger, the project was abandoned due to public backlash against its 'smart gun' technology prototype. Serial number one, manufactured in 1998, showcases Czech proof marks and a unique disassembly process.

Quick Summary

The Colt Z40 was a rare 1990s pistol, a collaboration between Colt and CZ, blending 1911 aesthetics with CZ 75 internals in .40 S&W. It was designed to comply with the Assault Weapons Ban but was canceled due to public backlash against its 'smart gun' prototype.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Colt Z40
  2. 01:18Colt's Financial Struggles
  3. 04:08Collaboration with CZ
  4. 05:54Design and Mechanics
  5. 06:59Smart Gun Controversy
  6. 10:58Visual Markings and Proofs
  7. 12:24Disassembly and Internal Overview

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Colt Z40 pistol?

The Colt Z40 was a rare pistol developed in the 1990s as a collaboration between Colt and CZ. It combined 1911 grip aesthetics with CZ 75 internals, chambered in .40 S&W, and was designed to comply with the Assault Weapons Ban.

Why was the Colt Z40 project abandoned?

Colt abandoned the Z40 project primarily due to significant public backlash against its use as a prototype for 'smart gun' technology. Fears of government control and reliability concerns led Colt to discontinue the model.

What were the design influences of the Colt Z40?

The Colt Z40 drew inspiration from the 1911 pistol for its grip angle and overall style, while incorporating the slide and internal lockwork mechanisms of the CZ 75. It was chambered in .40 S&W and featured a Double Action Only (DAO) trigger.

How many Colt Z40 pistols were made?

Approximately 800 Colt Z40 pistols were imported into the United States. Serial number one, featured in the video, was manufactured in 1998 and displays Czech proof marks.

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