Colt Police Positive First Issue .38 S&W Revolver, 4" Nickel, 1907 Production
This early 1907 Colt Police Positive First Issue is a six-shot, double-action/single-action revolver chambered in .38 S&W. Built within the model’s first year of production, it retains its uncommon factory bright nickel finish, Colt "Positive Lock" hammer-block safety, and original checkered black hard-rubber grips. Collectors will note the revolver’s early serial range and period-correct features, making it a notable example of Colt’s turn-of-the-century law-enforcement sidearm.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair – Showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair – Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Rifling Condition: Fair – Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
The revolver displays moderate scratching, scuffing, pitting, and blemishing across the nickel finish. The right grip has a small chip missing.
What’s Included
- Hunter brown leather flap holster
Manufactured in Hartford, Connecticut, this Police Positive falls into serial range 172xx—solidly within 1907 production. The First Issue series introduced Colt’s "Positive Lock" safety, preventing the hammer from contacting the firing pin unless the trigger is fully depressed, a notable advance for the era.
The factory bright nickel finish was a paid upgrade at the time and appears far less often than the standard blued version, adding collectibility. Despite visible wear, the nickel still presents an attractive vintage sheen that highlights the revolver’s lines and crisp barrel address.
The 4" barrel length was favored by police departments for its balance of compactness and ballistic performance with the .38 S&W cartridge. Fixed sights—half-moon front blade and top-strap groove rear—remain original and serviceable.
Original checkered black hard-rubber grips with prominent "COLT" logos remain in place, matching the revolver’s early production details. The external hammer, smooth trigger face, and six-shot fluted cylinder reflect classic Colt craftsmanship of the period.