Colt Detective Special Second Issue .38 Special, 2-inch Blued, 6-Shot, 1963 Production
This Colt Detective Special Second Issue stands out as a 1963-produced, U.S.-made D-frame snub with the long grip-frame (pre-1966) configuration. It features a 2-inch blued steel barrel, six-shot .38 Special chambering, and classic checkered walnut service stocks with silver Colt medallions. Fixed sights and an exposed, unshrouded ejector rod complete this compact, collectible revolver.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There are scratches on the frame and rub marks across the exterior surfaces.
What’s Included
- Colt Detective Special Second Issue revolver
The Second Issue Detective Special retains the hallmark Colt D-frame profile with a compact 2-inch barrel and six-round capacity in .38 Special. This example reflects the long grip-frame configuration seen prior to 1966, offering that earlier profile collectors look for in 1960s production guns.
Construction is all carbon steel with a uniform blued finish on the frame, cylinder, and receiver. The fluted cylinder and exposed, unshrouded ejector rod follow the classic Detective Special pattern from this era.
The revolver operates in double-action/single-action and wears fixed sights, combining an integral serrated ramp front sight with a topstrap notch rear. Checkered walnut service stocks with silver Colt medallions provide a traditional grip and period-correct appearance.
Documented as 1963 production per published Colt serial ranges, this U.S.-made Second Issue example aligns with sought-after 1960s Detective Special features. Its compact size, steel construction, and period details make it a strong representative of the model’s mid-century configuration.