Colt/Union Switch & Signal 1911/A1 .45 ACP Semi-Auto Pistol, 1918/1943 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1211
LSB#: 210616KB12
Make: Colt Frame, Union Switch & Signal Co. Slide
Model: Custom 1911/1911-A1
Serial Number: 349882
Year of Manufacture: The frame was made in 1918 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup), the slide was made in 1943.
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto with Removable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked with a “USS” monogram logo and “U.S. & S. CO. / SWISSVALE, PA. U.S.A.”, the right of the slide is marked “1”. The left of the frame above the magazine release is marked with an eagle’s head over “S14”. The right side of the frame is marked “No 349882”. The top of the frame is marked “H”, “y” and “G” around the disconnector, “8” to the right of the feed ramp. The left link-lug of the barrel is marked “P”, the right “HS”. The front face of the barrel bushing is marked “7267718”, “N” and “M”.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated, ramped blade fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a Wichita square-notch sight adjustable for windage and elevation, dovetailed to the rear of the slide. The top-rear edge of the slide has been relieved for clearance of the rear sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut panels. The grips have minor handling wear with only a few minor marks. The checkering is generally sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine-Excellent condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blued & Parkerized
Finish Originality: Refinished, the slide is not original to the frame.
Bore Condition: The bore is gray with sharp rifling. There is scattered light erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 70% of its current metal finish. The slide’s finish is generally strong throughout with a few minor marks and light operational wear. The frame’s finish has the mottled color of old, worn cold blue with some scattered spots of minor erosion and some light nicks and scratches. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Very Good condition as refinished and not parts-original.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger pull is crisp, but a little heavy. There is very little play between the slide and frame. This pistol has manual and grip safeties. We have not fired this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a single 7-round magazine.
Our Assessment: This is a custom target pistol which has been made using a Union Switch & Signal 1911-A1 slide from WWII, a WWI era Colt 1911 frame and a mix of other small parts, mostly 1911-A1-style. It has been equipped with target sights and a nice set of checkered walnut grips. Whether you’re looking for a .45 for your local bowling pin shoots or if some of these parts will help fill out your own builds, this is a nice pistol to add to any safe in America. Please see our photos and good luck!