WWI Colt Model Of 1911 U.S. Army .45 ACP Semi-Automatic Pistol, 1918 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,525.00
LSB#: LSB260128HS005
Make: Colt
Model: 1911
Serial Number: 353328
Year of Manufacture: 1918 / ATF Classification: C&R
Caliber: .45 Auto
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, short-recoil operated, fed by detachable magazines
Markings: The VP proof on the frame was lost when refinished, though the Frank Hosmer “H” mark remains, proving it is a Colt frame. The barrel is correctly marked “C” and “P” on the lug, though it is a pre-1945 replacement barrel as only post 710,001 serial number Colt barrels had those markings. The magazine is marked “S” on the lip indicating it was manufactured by Scovill Mfg. Co.
Barrel Length: 5″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a short blade fixed to the slide. The rear sight is a square notch dovetailed into the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut with smooth diamonds around the grip screws. The grips have moderate handling wear with scattered pressure dings and a few minor scuffs. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly-bright and the rifling is well defined with stubborn fouling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This firearm retains about 80% of its current metal finish. The finish shows moderate wear from handling and operation. There are scattered scuffs and light scratches in the finish. There are spots of pitting throughout that have been finished over. The action shows operational wear. The markings are worn, but legible. Overall, this pistol is in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger pull is crisp. There is very minor 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: 7-round magazine
Our Assessment: This World War I Colt Model of 1911 U.S. Army pistol was manufactured in 1918 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic firearm. Serial number 353328 places it squarely within wartime production by Colt during the final year of the First World War. The Model of 1911 served as the standard U.S. military sidearm during the Great War and became one of the most influential service pistols of the 20th century.
Chambered in .45 ACP with a 5 inch barrel, this pistol reflects the original Government Model configuration adopted by the U.S. Army in 1911. The barrel is correctly marked “C” and “P” on the lug; however, it is a replacement barrel, as only post-710001 serial number Colt barrels bore those markings. Both the slide and frame are period-correct Colt parts. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9 out of 10, indicating strong internal condition. The action functions correctly.
This firearm retains approximately 80 percent of its non-original metal finish, showing honest service wear consistent with age and use. The grips rate in Good condition with visible handling wear appropriate to a wartime pistol. Overall, this pistol rates in about Good condition and stands as a solid example of a 1918 Colt U.S. Army Model of 1911 with correct period components and pre-1945 barrel replacement. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! -C.R.