Colt Delta Elite Government Model 10mm 5″ Semi-Auto Pistol MFD 1988
SOLD FOR: $1,144.00
LSB#: LSB250519JC036
Make: Colt
Model: Delta Elite Government Model
Serial Number: DE14670
Year of Manufacture: 1988
Caliber: 10mm Auto
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Single Action, Fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “DELTA ELITE / COLT AUTO” and “10mm”. The right side of the slide is marked “ GOVERNMENT MODEL”. The right side of the frame is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.” along with the serial number “DE14670”. The chamber is marked “-CAL10 MM AUTO-”. The trigger guard and underside of the slide bear appropriate inspector marks.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade fixed to the slide. The rear sight is a square-notch sight dovetailed to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are one-piece rubber grip with Delta medallions. There are no chips or cracks. Only the lightest signs of handling are present. The grips rate in about excellent overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 8-round Colt-marked 10mm magazine is included in excellent condition. An additional 8-round Roger’s Bullet Co. magazine is included.
Type of Finish: Blued/matt hard chrome
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 99% of its original metal finish. There are minimal handling marks and minimal edge thinning at the muzzle and sharp edges. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are clean. The markings are crisp. Overall, this pistol rates in about 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: Two magazines
Our Assessment: The Colt Delta Elite Government Model is a full-size 1911-style semi-automatic pistol chambered in 10mm Auto, introduced as one of the first production 1911s built specifically for the powerful cartridge. This particular example, manufactured in 1988, represents an early and desirable version from the original production run. Featuring a 5″ barrel and classic Government Model profile, the Delta Elite retains the familiar ergonomics and styling of the .45 ACP 1911, while delivering significantly greater velocity and energy with the 10mm round. The pistol is built on a forged stainless steel frame and slide, with the iconic red Delta medallion grips and corresponding rollmarks on the slide. It includes standard 1911 features such as a single-action trigger, grip safety, thumb safety, and fixed combat sights. Internally, early models incorporated reinforced components—such as a beefed-up recoil system—to handle the increased pressures of the 10mm cartridge. Highly regarded by collectors and 10mm enthusiasts, the Delta Elite offers a powerful blend of classic 1911 handling and magnum-level semi-auto performance in a rugged and timeless platform.
