Colt Detective Special Blued .38 Spl. Double Action DA/SA Revolver 1973 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,080.00
LSB#: LSB250807SH008
Make: Colt
Model: Detective Special
Serial Number: C43784
Year of Manufacture: 1973 (COLT Serial Number Lookup)
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: 6-Shot DA/SA Double Action Revolver with Swing Out Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “DETECTIVE SPEC. / .38 SPECIAL CTG.”. The right side of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD CONN. U.S.A.”. The side plate is marked with a rampant colt. The crane cut is marked with serial number, “C43784” / “M”. The crane is marked with the serial number, “C43784”. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with a “VP” in a triangle and “3” at the rear.
Barrel Length: 2”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a square-notch integral to the topstrap. There is a groove along the length of the topstrap with serrated edges for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two piece checkered wood. There is little to no handling wear. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. There is a faint turn line on the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action function correctly. The double action is smooth and the single action is crisp. The cylinder locks up with no play on each chamber when the trigger is depressed. We did not fire this revolver. As with all previously owned firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This revolver comes with its factory box, owner’s manual, and factory handouts.
Our Assessment: The Detective Special has been very popular with law enforcement and civilians who carried a concealed revolver as it allowed for a 6-shot revolver in the same frame size as other revolvers which only offered a 5-round capacity. This example is a 3rd Issue made in 1973 with an shrouded ejector rod in Excellent condition with only light visible operational and handling wear. While this Detective Special would still make a great carry revolver, it would also make a neat piece for a Colt collector. Please see our photos and good luck! – L.S.
