WWI Colt U.S. Army Model of 1911 .45 ACP Semi-Auto Pistol, MFD 1918 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2050
LSB#: 210614RZ10
Make: Colt
Model: US Army Model of 1911
Serial Number: 395829
Year of Manufacture: 1918
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto Pistol, Detachable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the dust cover is marked “UNITED STATES PROPERTY”, the right of the frame is marked “No 395829”. The right side of the slide is marked “MODEL OF 1911. U. S. ARMY”. The left side of the slide is marked “PATENTED APR.20,1897. SEPT.9,1902 / DEC.19,1905. FEB.14,1911. AUG. 19, 1913”, “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.” and with a rampant horse behind the serrations. The rear of the slide is marked “H”. The barrel is marked with a vertical “P” at the ejection port.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded and non-tapered blade. The rear sight is a squared, flattop, U-notch sight, set into a dovetail slot. Both sights are correct for the manufacture date.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are very nice double diamond walnut panels that appear to be original period panels. The left panel is 12-Row, the right panel is 10-row. The checkering is surprisingly sharp and there are no cracks. The color and age lead us to believe they are no modern replacements. The grips rate in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: “Restored”
Bore Condition: The bore is almost bright, and the rifling is sharp. There is only very faint erosion. This is an 8 out of 10 bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There is only very slight edge wear and surface marking at the serial number. The left side of the frame at the heel has some marking from reassembly. There is truly very little wear to the newer finish. This finish was also applied very well over nearly perfect metal prep. Only under careful examination of radiused areas can you see minor erosion. Also the grain isn’t exactly “right”, especially at the sights. The screw heads are lightly worn. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions properly and is tight. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: One unmarked, 2-tone, original condition magazine in about 80% condition is retained.
Our Assessment: The 1911 and 1911-A1 pistols served the military of the United States from 1911 to 1985, through two World Wars and the Korean and Vietnam wars. They gained a reputation as a reliable handgun with plenty of stopping power, and are held in high regard by those who have used them.
This is a U. S. Government marked Colt 1911 pistol made toward the end of WWI in 1918. This pistol isn’t finish original, but it is a show-stopper with a great bore. It may be refinished/restored, but it was a fantastic job.
Please see our photos and good luck!