1948 Colt Woodsman Second Series Target .22 LR Pistol, 6-Inch Barrel, Rare Coltwood Grips & Coltmaster Sight
Built in 1948, this Second Series Colt Woodsman Target Model pairs classic Colt machining with features found only on early post-war production. The pistol retains its factory 6-inch carbon-steel barrel, high-polish finish, and distinctive brown Coltwood plastic grips—components that collectors recognize as increasingly scarce. A Coltmaster fully adjustable rear sight and push-button magazine release round out a package long regarded as one of the finest rimfire target pistols of its era.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – clean, well-maintained, with minor wear marks.
Rifling Condition: Good – intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The left grip panel has a large chip, and the firearm exhibits multiple scratches on the metal surfaces.
What’s Included
- Colt Woodsman Second Series Target .22 LR pistol
- 1× 10-round factory Colt steel magazine
This example represents the early S-frame Woodsman, drilled at the factory for interchangeable grip adapters—a feature unique to the Second Series. The original brown Coltwood stocks, fitted only from 1947–1950, remain on the pistol and display the correct mottled pattern.
Colt’s Coltmaster rear sight, used for just six years, provides precise windage and elevation control. Coupled with the serrated ramp front blade, the sight set delivers a clear, target-focused sight picture befitting the pistol’s competition lineage.
The push-button magazine release, exclusive to the Second Series, speeds reloads while preserving the Woodsman’s slim grip profile. Inside, the single-action trigger and straight-blowback action keep lock-time short and recoil minimal, enhancing accuracy with standard-velocity .22 LR ammunition.
A 6-inch carbon-steel barrel balances the pistol nicely and offers a long sight radius. The high-polish metallic blue finish retains its reflective quality, underscoring Colt’s post-war craftsmanship despite honest handling marks noted above.