Colt Detective Special Second Issue .38 Special, 2-inch Blued D-Frame Revolver (1972)
This 1972 Colt Detective Special Second Issue is a six-shot D-frame snubnose chambered in .38 Special with the classic 2-inch barrel. It features the Second-Issue configuration with an unshrouded ejector rod, fixed sights, and anti-glare serrations on the topstrap and barrel rib. Practical updates include Pachmayr Compac rubber stocks with Colt medallions and red paint applied to the front sight ramp.
Factory barrel markings remain present: the left side reads "DETECTIVE SPEC. .38 SPECIAL CTG." and the right side carries the Colt Hartford address. The right sideplate bears the Rampant Colt pony. Built on a blued carbon-steel frame, this DA/SA revolver retains the smooth-faced trigger and exposed, checkered hammer spur typical of the model and era.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This firearm is in solid shape. It has various cosmetic imperfections, scratches, blemishes, and areas of finish loss. The bore remains clean and shiny.
What's Included
- Colt Detective Special Second Issue .38 Special revolver (1972) with Pachmayr Compac rubber stocks and red-painted front sight
The Second-Issue configuration stands out with its unshrouded ejector rod featuring a knurled tip, the 2-inch barrel profile, and fixed sights. Anti-glare serrations on the topstrap and barrel rib help reduce glare and aid sight focus.
The revolver is built on Colt's compact D-frame in blued carbon steel. It operates in double action/single action and retains an exposed, checkered hammer spur and a smooth-faced trigger for consistent control.
Sight details include an integral ramped front blade, which has been enhanced with red paint, paired with a fixed topstrap notch rear. These fixed sights are in keeping with the Detective Special's carry-oriented design.
Notable factory markings include the left barrel legend "DETECTIVE SPEC. .38 SPECIAL CTG." and the right barrel Colt Hartford address, along with the Rampant Colt pony on the right sideplate. This example was manufactured in the United States in 1972.
Ergonomics are improved with Pachmayr Compac rubber stocks that incorporate Colt medallions, providing a secure, hand-filling grip on the compact six-shot frame.