I Have This Old Gun: Colt Detective Special

Published on November 18, 2020
Duration: 6:52

This comprehensive overview delves into the iconic Colt Detective Special, tracing its lineage from the Colt Police Positive Special and its introduction in 1927. The video highlights its design for concealed carry by plain-clothes detectives, its chambering in the ubiquitous .38 Special, and its evolution through various production issues. Expert insights cover collectible variations like Fitz conversions, comparisons to competitors like the Smith & Wesson Chief Special, and its significant role in law enforcement and military history, including its use by General George S. Patton.

Quick Summary

The Colt Detective Special, introduced in 1927, is an iconic 2-inch barreled revolver designed for concealed carry by plain-clothes detectives. Commonly chambered in .38 Special, it offered a six-shot capacity, distinguishing it from competitors like the five-shot Smith & Wesson Chief Special. Collectible variations include early square-butt models and specialized Fitz conversions.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction to the Colt Detective Special
  2. 00:18Origins and Key Features
  3. 00:54.38 Special Cartridge History
  4. 01:27Detective Special Users and Versatility
  5. 01:42Early Variations and Collectibility
  6. 02:00Fitz Conversion Details
  7. 02:36Detective Special Production Issues
  8. 03:12Colt vs. Smith & Wesson Competition
  9. 03:58Later Colt Detective Special Models
  10. 04:44Collectibility and Military Use
  11. 05:43WWII Military Detective Specials

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Colt Detective Special first introduced and what was its primary purpose?

The Colt Detective Special was first introduced in 1927. It was designed as a compact, 2-inch barreled revolver intended for plain-clothes detectives, making it ideal for concealed carry.

What caliber is the Colt Detective Special typically chambered in, and why was this significant?

The Colt Detective Special was most commonly chambered in .38 Special. This caliber became the most popular police cartridge in the early 20th century as departments transitioned from smaller calibers, making the Detective Special a highly relevant firearm for law enforcement.

What are some notable variations or modifications of the Colt Detective Special?

Notable variations include early square-butt models, which are highly collectible. J. Henry FitzGerald developed 'Fitz conversions' featuring modifications like bobbed hammers and opened trigger guards for defensive purposes. The Detective Special also evolved through three main production issues with distinct frame and feature changes.

How did the Colt Detective Special compare to its main competitor, the Smith & Wesson Chief Special?

The Colt Detective Special competed directly with the Smith & Wesson Chief Special. While the Chief Special often had a narrower cylinder for better concealment, the Detective Special typically offered a six-shot capacity compared to the Chief Special's five-shot capacity.

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