Colt Police Positive .32 Short 2.5” Blued 6-Shot DA/SA Revolver, 1912 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,500.00
LSB#: WY250310TP004
Make: Colt
Model: Police Positive .32
Serial Number: 106049
Year of Manufacture: 1912 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .32 Short Colt
Action Type: Single Action/Double Action with Swing Out Cylinder Hand Ejector.
Markings: The left side of the frame is marked with a Rampant Colt logo and a “VP” proof near the trigger guard. The crane cut and crane are marked with the serial number, “106049”. The barrel is marked, “POLICE POSITIVE / 32 COLT CTG.”. The grips are serial matched to the frame. The top of the barrel is marked with patent dates.
Barrel Length: 2.5”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade integral to a rectangular base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is u-notch integral to the top strap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two piece checkered Colt vulcanized rubber panels. The checkering is crisp with light handling wear on the peaks. There are a few minor nicks and compressions on the bottoms. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good 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, but there are some small rust spots near the end. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
Many military and C&R eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide. For example, the U.S. used corrosive ammunition throughout WWII. The U.S. military did not begin to phase out corrosive-primed ammunition until the 1950’s.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 96% of its metal finish. There are light handling marks throughout. There is light thinning and an impact mark on the muzzle. The action has light wear. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with a serviceable slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Colt Police Positive .32 with a 2.5-inch barrel, manufactured in 1912, is a classic early 20th-century revolver, designed for law enforcement and civilian self-defense. The Police Positive series was introduced in 1907, offering a refined, compact, and reliable double-action/single-action revolver, chambered in calibers suited for concealed carry and police duty. Chambered in .32 Short Colt, this revolver was intended for those seeking a manageable recoil with effective close-range performance, making it popular among detectives, plainclothes officers, and private citizens looking for a dependable sidearm. Its compact frame and smooth double-action operation made it one of Colt’s most well-regarded pocket revolvers of the era. One of the defining features of this Colt Police Positive is its small frame and swing-out cylinder, which allowed for faster reloading and greater durability compared to earlier solid-frame revolvers. The original blued finish remains in remarkable condition, retaining about 96% coverage, with only light handling wear and minor thinning near the muzzle. The crisp checkered Colt-logo vulcanized rubber grips, which remain in very good condition, offer a comfortable and secure hold, enhancing its controllability despite its compact size. The bright bore with sharp rifling is another testament to this revolver’s well-preserved condition, making it a highly functional and collectible piece.
For collectors, Colt enthusiasts, and those who appreciate classic American revolvers, this 1912 Colt Police Positive .32 represents a prime example of early Colt revolver craftsmanship. Its historical significance as a popular law enforcement and civilian firearm, combined with its high-condition original finish and excellent mechanics, make it a standout piece for both display and range use. Whether sought after as a collectible example of early 20th-century concealed carry revolvers or as a fine shooting antique, this Colt remains a testament to the enduring quality and reliability that has defined Colt revolvers for over a century. -R.E.
