1st Year Colt Delta Elite First Edition 10mm Semi-Automatic Pistol

SOLD FOR: $2575

LSB#: 220419RS005

Make: Colt

Model: Delta Elite First Edition, 450 of 500

Serial Number: DE00450

Year of Manufacture: 1987 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)

Caliber: 10mm

Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic Detachable Magazine Fed Pistol

Markings: The right of the frame is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A. / DE00450”, the left of the trigger guard is marked “G” and “VP” in triangle, the right of the trigger guard is marked “8” the top of the barrel is marked “-CAL. 10 MM AUTO-“. The following markings are in gold. The left of the slide is marked “DELTA ELITE / -COLT AUTO-” with “10mm” in triangle in the center, the right is marked “First Edition”, each side has a rampant colt logo in circle behind the serrations.

Barrel Length: 5″

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a ramped blade with a white dot fixed to the front of the slide and the rear sight is a square notch with two white dots dovetailed to the rear of the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth wood with gold colored Colt medallions. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This pistol  retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The pin heads are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide to frame fit has barely perceptible play. The trigger is crisp. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes in a wood hinge-lid Colt case with clear lid and red fabric-lined french-fit interior with inset Delta Elite First Edition plate and a key for the case. The case has some light wear on the clear lid, otherwise showing minor storage wear. A single magazine is included.

Our Assessment: The Delta Elite was introduced in 1987 as a 10mm version of the 1911. The 1911 already had a following, of course, while the 10mm cartridge was popular as a result of Jeff Cooper’s involvement in its development and use in the Bren-10. It has remained popular with fans of the 1911 and the 10mm cartridge ever since. This example was made in 1987, the first year of production and is a First Edition. The first 500 Delta Elites were given gold markings on the slide, smooth wood presentation grips and were equipped with a presentation case for display. This example is in Excellent condition, appearing to have spent more time in the case than out. Whether you’re a fan of 1911s, 10mm, or both, this is a great example of a Delta Elite for the collector and, should you wish, should also make for a very classy and potent shooter. Please see our photos and good luck!