Davidson’s Exclusive Colt Delta Elite FDE 10mm Semi-Automatic Pistol, 2017

SOLD FOR: $3025

LSB#: 211027GL10

Make: Colt

Model: Delta Elite, Davidson’s Exclusive

Serial Number: DS38837

Year of Manufacture: Ca. 2017

Caliber: 10mm Auto

Action Type: Single Action, Semi-Automatic, Removable Magazine Fed Pistol

Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “DELTA ELITE” with a triangle, the right is marked “COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL”. The left of the trigger guard bow is marked “Y” and “VP” in triangle. The right of the frame is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.” with the serial number, the barrel is marked “-CAL. 10MM AUTO-”. The magazine floorplate is marked “COLT” and “10MM / AUTO” with a rampant colt logo.

Barrel Length: 5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade with a white dot dovetailed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a Novak square notch with two white dots dovetailed and screw-set to the rear of the slide. The top of the slide has a serrated rib and is matte-finished.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered black rubber with red triangle Delta Elite medallions. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The checkering is sharp. There are no rips or tears. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Flat Dark Earth Cerakote

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. The action shows minor operational wear. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp, the pinheads are unmarred. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger is crisp. The slide has no play to the frame, but slides smoothly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes in a blue plastic Colt case with serial-matching label, a single 8-round magazine and an assortment of factory paperwork including manual and red “stop-sign” hang-tag. The box and accessories show minimal storage wear.

Our Assessment: The Delta Elite was introduced in 1987 as a 10mm version of the 1911. The 1911 already had a following, of course, while the cartridge was popular as a result of Jeff Cooper’s involvement in its development and use in the Bren-10. It has remained popular with fans of the 1911 and the 10mm cartridge ever since. This example was made as a distributor exclusive for Davidson’s and has some nice upgrades over the original Delta Elite. The gun is built on an Enhanced frame with an under-cut trigger guard, extended beavertail grip safety, skeletonized hammer and trigger, and dovetailed Novak sights. The pistol shows signs of limited use, appearing to have spent more time in its included box than out. As a limited exclusive, it will make a great addition to a Colt, 1911, or 10mm collection. Thanks to its features and 10mm chambering, it will also be a good choice for self-defense, a hunting sidearm, or just a fun shooter. Please see our photos and good luck!