Colt Combat Commander .45 ACP 4.25″ Semi Automatic Pistol MFD 1971 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,525.00

LSB#: WY250319DS001

Make: Colt

Model: Combat Commander

Serial Number: 70BS4206

Year of Manufacture: 1971, C&R

Caliber: .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol)

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Single Action, Fed by Detachable Magazine

Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “COLT’S COMBAT COMMANDER / AUTOMATIC CALIBER .45”. The right side of the slide is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.”. The right side of the frame is marked with the serial number “70BS4206”. The barrel is marked “COLT .45 AUTO”   

Barrel Length: 4.25”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade, integral to the slide. The rear sight is a square notch dovetailed to the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut panels with gold Colt medallions. The checkering shows some light flattening from handling. There are no cracks or chips. The grips rate in about Very Good overall condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 7-round magazine is included, marked “COLT .45 AUTO” on the baseplate, 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 but there is stubborn fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 90% of its original metal finish. The slide has light edge thinning at the muzzle and minor operational wear on the barrel visible through the ejection port. There are faint handling marks and light scratches along the slide flats. The frame shows slight finish wear around the grip safety and front strap. The screw heads are sharp and serviceable. The pins are unmarred. The markings are sharp. Overall, this pistol rates in about Very Good 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: None

Our Assessment:  This Colt Combat Commander is a fine early-production example of the steel-frame variant introduced in the early 1970s. Designed to bridge the gap between full-size service pistols and compact carry guns, the Combat Commander retains all the handling characteristics of the M1911 platform while offering improved portability thanks to its shortened slide and barrel.

Built in 1971, the first full year of Combat Commander production, this pistol is both C&R eligible and highly collectible. The Colt quality from this era is immediately evident in the fit, finish, and crisp lines. With a sharp bore and clean mechanics, it remains an excellent shooter-grade piece that would also shine in any Colt or classic 1911 collection.

Whether you’re looking for a historically significant Colt, a dependable vintage carry option, or just an all-around gorgeous .45 ACP pistol with proven performance, this Combat Commander delivers. It’s a true classic from the golden age of American gunmaking.  Please see our High Quality photos and good luck on your bids.-C.M.