Colt M1911A1 U.S. Army .45 ACP – Early-War 1942 Parkerized Service Pistol
This Colt M1911A1 U.S. Army pistol comes from the early-war 801001–856100 serial block, placing its production in 1942. It retains its original Parkerized carbon-steel finish, wartime Coltwood phenolic grips, and narrow fixed sights used before March 1943. Matching “P” proofs and the boxed “W B” inspector mark confirm its correct WWII configuration, making it a desirable example for collectors seeking an authentic service sidearm.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The Parkerized finish shows scattered scratches and blemishes consistent with wartime service. The bore remains clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- Two 7-round steel Colt 1911 magazines
Built on Colt’s battle-proven 1911 platform, this full-size pistol features a 5-inch carbon-steel barrel chambered in .45 ACP and a single-action trigger system trusted by U.S. forces throughout WWII.
The factory Parkerized finish, applied to improve corrosion resistance in harsh field conditions, still shows its original dull grey-green tone. Both the slide and frame wear matching “P” proof marks, verifying correct assembly, while the boxed “W B” cartouche identifies Colonel Waldemar Broberg’s acceptance inspection during 1942 production.
Fully-checkered brown Coltwood grips were introduced in early 1942 to conserve walnut stocks. Their crisp checkering remains intact, offering a secure hold and adding period authenticity.
Pre-March 1943 narrow fixed sights—rounded blade front (.058 in) and U-notch rear (.120 in)—sit atop the slide, just as they left the Hartford factory. A wide-spur hammer and carbon-steel small parts complete the pistol’s as-issued wartime configuration.