Rare Colt Police Positive First Issue .38 S&W Revolver, 2.25" Snub Barrel, Mother-of-Pearl Grips
This Colt Police Positive First Issue stands out for its factory 2.25-inch snub barrel produced well before the Detective Special entered the lineup. Chambered in .38 S&W and finished in high-polish blue, it features smooth mother-of-pearl grip panels and Colt’s Positive Lock hammer-block safety. A short production window, clockwise cylinder rotation, and First-Issue smooth top-strap add to its appeal for collectors looking for an early, scarce variant.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent – Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear. Rifling remains sharp with well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Light finish loss on high-contact edges and small handling marks are present, but all factory markings remain clear. Bore is bright and clean.
What’s Included
- Colt Police Positive First Issue .38 S&W revolver with 2.25-inch barrel and smooth mother-of-pearl grip panels
This example predates the Detective Special, making its 2.25-inch barrel an uncommon factory configuration that enhances its desirability. The smooth, non-serrated top-strap and clockwise cylinder rotation confirm its First-Issue status.
Built on a carbon-steel frame and cylinder, the revolver retains much of its original high-polish blued finish, giving it a classic Colt appearance. The Positive Lock safety blocks the hammer unless the trigger is deliberately pulled, a notable advancement for its era.
The mother-of-pearl grips, whether factory-ordered or period-installed, provide a distinctive look and comfortable in-hand feel. Their smooth surface complements the revolver’s sleek profile while adding a touch of period style.
Serial number 1527XX places production in the 1923–1924 range, yet the frame shows Colt records indicating 1882–1883 manufacture and the barrel bears a 1905 patent stamp. This blend of markings highlights Colt’s practice of using existing parts during transitional years and underscores the revolver’s collectible character.