Detonics Combat Master Mk. I .45 ACP 3.5” Barrel Semi Auto Pistol, 1976-81
SOLD FOR: $1,090.00
LSB#: WY250319DS028
Make: Detonics, Seattle Wa.
Model: Mk. I
Serial Number: 3726
Year of Manufacture: 1976-81
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Semi-Auto, Recoil Operated, Detachable Mag Fed Pistol
Markings: The right side of the frame is marked, “DETONICS ASSOCS SEATTLE, WA 3726”.
Barrel Length: 3.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a squared blade milled into the slide, The rear sight is a square notch dovetailed to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered wood panels with a rubberized mainspring housing. There are light wear marks throughout. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall these grips rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Black
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion but there is some light stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are faint handling marks throughout with wear marks to the barrel. There are refinished over spots of pitting. The barrel has been polished. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are mostly clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Very Good condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: One 6rd magazine.
Our Assessment: The Detonics Combat Master Mk. I is one of the earliest iterations of the iconic compact 1911-style pistol, produced between 1976 and 1981 during the formative years of Detonics in Seattle. Designed with concealed carry in mind, the Mk. I introduced several forward-thinking innovations for its time, including a shortened slide and barrel, relocated rear sight, and a unique recoil system for reliable cycling in a compact platform. Chambered in .45 ACP and sporting a 3.5-inch barrel, this pistol set the standard for future subcompact .45 autos and remains a significant piece of American firearms development. This example has been refinished and remains in very good condition. Approximately 97% of the current black finish remains, with some refinished-over areas of previous pitting and a polished barrel showing wear from use. The bore is clean and sharp, with only minor fouling, earning a 9 out of 10. The checkered wood grip panels are well-fitted and attractive, offering a traditional contrast to the refinished frame, while the rubberized mainspring housing enhances handling and recoil control. The action functions properly and it comes with a single 6-round magazine.
As an early production Mk. I model, this pistol is a desirable piece for collectors of classic compact .45s or enthusiasts of the 1911 platform. Despite its refinished condition, it retains all of its core features and remains a solid, mechanically sound example of one of the first serious attempts to create a compact, concealable .45 ACP. Whether as a collectible, a carry option, or a range companion, this Combat Master Mk. I represents a pioneering step in American handgun design. -R.E.
