Original Colt Police Positive .38 Revolver

Published on March 18, 2025
Duration: 2:16

This video provides an overview and shooting impression of an original Colt Police Positive .38 Special revolver, likely manufactured in the 1920s. The presenter highlights its smaller frame, reminiscent of a .32 caliber, and notes a previous rebluing job that was well-executed. The firearm is shown being fired with vintage Remington Clean Bore .38 Special Police Service loads, featuring 158-grain lead bullets, and the shooter offers observations on recoil and accuracy despite the small sights.

Quick Summary

The Colt Police Positive .38 Special is a vintage revolver built on a compact, .32 caliber-sized frame. While strong enough for standard loads, it's not recommended for +P ammunition. Shooting with 158-grain bullets can produce noticeable recoil, and its small sights require careful aiming for accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Colt Police Positive
  2. 00:05Colt .38 Special Police Positive Overview
  3. 00:09Reblued Finish and Original Grips
  4. 00:21Small Frame Design
  5. 00:32Firearm Age and Durability
  6. 00:43Safety Gear and Ammunition Selection
  7. 00:48Vintage Remington Ammunition Details
  8. 01:07Shooting the Colt Police Positive
  9. 01:20Recoil and Shooting Impressions
  10. 01:28Sights and Accuracy
  11. 01:55Ammunition Recommendations
  12. 02:03Concluding Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Colt Police Positive .38 Special known for?

The Colt Police Positive .38 Special is recognized for its compact design, built on a smaller frame similar to a .32 caliber firearm. It's a vintage revolver, often appreciated for its historical significance and classic aesthetics, especially models with shorter barrels.

Can vintage Colt Police Positive revolvers safely fire modern ammunition?

While vintage Colt Police Positive revolvers are generally strong enough for standard .38 Special loads, they are not recommended for modern +P ammunition. It's advisable to use standard pressure loads to preserve the integrity of these older firearms.

What type of ammunition was used to test the Colt Police Positive in the video?

The video tested the Colt Police Positive with vintage Remington Clean Bore .38 Special Police Service loads. These loads featured a 158-grain lead bullet and are estimated to be from the early 1940s.

What are the shooting characteristics of a Colt Police Positive with 158-grain loads?

Shooting a Colt Police Positive with 158-grain .38 Special loads can result in noticeable recoil, described as 'nippy,' especially given the revolver's small frame and potentially short barrel. Accuracy can be challenging due to small, sometimes hard-to-see sights.

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