Colt 1911A1, 45 ACP, 717531, 1940

This is one of a batch of 2468 service pistols, whose serial numbers ranged from 717282 to 721977 for 1940, with deliveries beginning in April of that year.

This was an interesting year for service pistol production. Hardening of the slide in selected areas commenced. Plastic grips were introduced. These were “Coltrock” and used for only a short time as they proved too brittle for service use.  The 2-tone magazine was still in use at this time.

This is an exceptionally fine example of a Colt 1911A1. On one hand it is pristine and correct in every detail. The slide is serial numbered to the frame and all marks are correct. The grips are the very rare originals.

As is, this would be a desirable addition to any 1911 collection in its original factory condition. However, the gun has been prepared for match competition. The action is tight and smooth. The trigger is crisp and light (4.5 lbs.)  The last four digits of the serial number are written in electric pencil on the barrel (visible through the ejection port). 

The barrel is an HS, introduced in 1943 and the recoil spring plug is uncheckered. A five-pointed star is stamped on top of the slide in front of the P mark. On the right side of the slide the letter B is stamped behind the trigger. While the location of the work is undefined it is typical of Ordinance procedures of the era.

Information on this item has been gleaned from: Collectors Guide to Colt .45 Service Pistols Models of 1911 and 1911 A1 by Charles W. Clawson, 1993.