Colt Woodsman Sport 4.5″ .22 LR Semi Auto Pistol 1942 & Factory Letter
SOLD FOR: $1,251.00
LSB#: WY250405JW017
Make: Colt
Model: Woodsman Sport Model
Serial Number: 152045
Year of Manufacture: 1942 (C&R Eligible)
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Blowback Operated, Fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the frame is marked “THE WOODSMAN”. The left side of the slide is marked “COLT” followed by “AUTOMATIC / CAL. .22 LONG RIFLE”. with the “Rampant Colt” logo. The left side of the barrel is marked “COLT’S MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A. / PAT.”. The serial number “152045” is marked on the front strap.
Barrel Length: 4.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a square-notch adjustable for windage, dovetailed into the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut panels with diamond patterns around the screws. The grips show only minor handling wear, with sharp checkering and no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Very Good to Excellent overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 10-round blued steel magazine, marked for .22 caliber, in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 90% of its metal finish. The finish shows light operational wear on the barrel, edges of the slide, and front strap. There are scattered faint scratches and some finish thinning from handling. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are clean. The markings are sharp and clear. Overall, this pistol rates in about Very Good to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol includes a Factory Colt Letter confirming its production and configuration.
Our Assessment: The Colt Woodsman Sport Model is a classic American .22 semi-automatic pistol, widely respected for its quality craftsmanship and superb handling. Manufactured in 1942, this example falls just before Colt ceased civilian production to shift focus to the war effort, making it a desirable transitional model with limited wartime-era availability.
Its compact 4.5” barrel configuration made it ideal for field use, while the checkered walnut grips and adjustable rear sight underscore Colt’s attention to precision and aesthetics. This particular pistol retains strong finish, crisp markings, and a factory letter verifying its provenance, enhancing both collector value and historic appeal.
Whether you’re a Colt enthusiast, a collector of WWII-era rimfire arms, or simply someone looking to own a beautifully made vintage .22 pistol, this Woodsman Sport Model is an outstanding piece. It’s ready for target shooting or to serve as a cornerstone in a classic handgun collection. Please see our High Quality photos and good luck on your bids.-C.M.
