COLT Officer’s Model Target .38 Special SA/DA Double Revolver, MFD 1936 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1900
LSB#: 210930TP02
Make: Colt
Model: Officer’s Model Target
Serial Number: 600240
Year of Manufacture: 1936 (COLT Serial Number Lookup)
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: Single Action/Double Action with Swing Out Cylinder
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. HARTFORD CT. U. S. A. / PAT’D AUG. 5, 1884 JULY 4, 1905 OCT. 5, 1926”. The left side of the barrel is marked “OFFICERS MODEL 38 / HEAVY BARREL” (these markings are flanked by Maltese crosses). The side plate is marked with the Rampant Colt. The crane is marked with the serial number, “600240” over “D”. The crane arm is marked with the serial number only, “600240”. On the left side of the frame the forward trigger guard bow is marked with “VP” in an inverted triangle, and the rear is marked “4”.
Barrel Length: 6” Tapered Heavy Barrel
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a height adjustable blade pinned to a base that is fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a windage adjustable flat-top u-notch that is dovetailed into the top strap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut panels with smooth borders, each with inset Colt medallions at the top. The backstrap is checkered. The smooth areas of each panel have minor nicks and compressions mainly along forward and bottom edges. There are no chips or cracks, and the checkering is sharp. Overall, the grips rate in Fine-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with well-defined rifling. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. Light operational wear can be found underneath the cylinder latch as well as the interior of the crane arm. The frame itself has a few minor nicks on either side. The cylinder has a faint turn line. The screws and pins have minor tool marks with strong slots. All markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine-to-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with no play when the trigger is depressed. The double action trigger is smooth. The single action trigger is feather light. We have not fired this revolver. As with all used firearms, thorough and consistent cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This Officer’s Model Target Revolver includes its serial-matching clamshell box. End labels are still mostly present, and the serial number is written on the underside of the box in wax pencil. Also included is a Colt ‘Shooting Suggestions’ pamphlet.
Our Assessment: The third issue Colt Officer’s Model Target revolvers were made from 1927-1949. The Officers Model was Colt’s premium revolver until the introduction of the super-premium Python in 1955. Back when revolvers were the target gun of choice, Colt models were the target revolver of choice and it’s easy to see why. The lockup on this 85 year old revolver is simply outstanding, a testament to the craftsmanship of Colt firearms—it is something not often seen even in finer commercial offerings today. The finish is near immaculate, as is the bore, giving the revolver a rather contemporary feel in-hand. The original box is a wonderful bonus, making for a more complete package. This is the same fantastic quality target revolver it was when it rolled off the assembly line in 1936, and will be of serious interest to the discerning Colt collector. Good luck and happy bidding!