Item Summary: This Colt 1911 U.S. Army model is a true piece of American history. Manufactured in 1918, during the peak of World War I, it's a service pistol that was widely used by the U.S. Armed Forces. Despite being over 105 years old, it's in fair condition, showing signs of extensive prior use and handling.
The blued finish is mostly gone, having turned to a nice looking browned patina. Rough around the edges but good condition for its age, the bore is bright and shiny, albeit with some hardened fouling visible between the rifling. The right grip is missing, along with the lower grip screw and screw bushing.
What's Included: The sale includes one 7 rd mag. The Springfield frame on a Colt slide is a unique feature, with the Springfield "Eagle Head" inspection mark visible on the left side of the frame behind the trigger guard. This is a testament to the time when Springfield was contracted by the U.S. Army to make 75,000 1911 pistols during WW1, but only delivered 8,000 frames; which were then used by Colt to manufacture the 1911.
Features and History: The Colt 1911 U.S. Army model uses .45 ACP caliber ammunition, a powerful round that contributed to its popularity among the troops. Its 'Single Action Only' (SAO) mechanism signifies that the trigger only performs a single action of releasing the hammer or striker to discharge the firearm, necessitating the manual cocking of the hammer for the first shot. This pistol remained in service as a standard military pistol for much of the 20th century, and stands as a legendary icon of firearm history. It holds an immense value to collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Why You Should Own This: As a symbol of reliability, this pistol will impress anyone with its robust design and high-quality blued finish. It's SAO action gives the shooter precise control and a traditionally crisp trigger pull. With a hearty .45 ACP caliber, it affords powerful stopping potential, making it suitable for both self-defense and hunting. Its 7+1 capacity also provides ample ammunition without being overly cumbersome. This piece of history not only serves practical purposes but also connects the owner to a rich, poignant past.