I Have This Old Gun: Colt Detective Special

Published on July 1, 2026
Duration: 4:12

This video provides a detailed historical and technical overview of the Colt Detective Special revolver. It highlights its development as a compact, double-action firearm intended for plainclothes law enforcement and its place in the arms race between Colt and Smith & Wesson. The discussion covers its design evolution, comparisons to contemporary revolvers, and its production run until 1993.

Quick Summary

The Colt Detective Special, introduced in 1927, was a compact double-action revolver designed for plainclothes law enforcement. Influenced by the 'Fitz Special,' it offered concealability with a two-inch barrel, fitting between S&W's J-frame and K-frame sizes, and was produced until 1993.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Colt Double-Action Revolvers
  2. 00:09The Colt Detective Special's Purpose
  3. 00:21Colt vs. Smith & Wesson Arms Race
  4. 00:33Development of the .38 Special Cartridge
  5. 00:54Colt Police Positive Special
  6. 01:05The Fitz Special Concept
  7. 01:08Birth of the Colt Detective Special (1927)
  8. 01:24Target Market: Plainclothes Detectives
  9. 01:42Design Features: Barrel Length & Sights
  10. 01:48Double-Action Operation
  11. 01:58Manufacturing Quality & Finish
  12. 02:09Size Comparison: Colt vs. S&W
  13. 02:17Variations and Finishes
  14. 02:26Later Production Upgrades
  15. 02:35The End of an Era: Colt Bankruptcy

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the primary purpose of the Colt Detective Special?

The Colt Detective Special was primarily designed for plainclothes law enforcement officers and detectives who needed a more compact and concealable firearm than standard duty revolvers. Its smaller size made it easier to carry discreetly.

When was the Colt Detective Special introduced, and what inspired its design?

The Colt Detective Special was introduced in 1927. Its design was influenced by John Henry Fitzgerald's 'Fitz Special,' a radical snub-nose revolver concept that featured a very short barrel and a modified trigger guard for enhanced concealment.

How does the Colt Detective Special compare in size to Smith & Wesson revolvers?

The Colt Detective Special is generally considered smaller than a Smith & Wesson K-frame revolver but larger than a Smith & Wesson J-frame five-shot revolver. This places it in a distinct size category for concealable firearms.

What are some key features of the Colt Detective Special's operation and construction?

It operates as a true double-action revolver, allowing for both single-action (hammer cocked) and double-action (trigger pull only) firing. The revolver was known for its high-quality manufacturing, available in finishes like royal blue and nickel plating.

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