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Scarce U.S. Colt Transitional Model 1911A1 Semi-Automatic Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:600.00 USD Estimated At:1,400.00 - 2,250.00 USD
Scarce U.S. Colt Transitional Model 1911A1 Semi-Automatic Pistol
This is an example of the desirable Colt "Transitional" Model 1911 Pistols manufactured and delivered to the Army in 1924. The "Transitional" Model pistols are serial numbered between 700001 and 710000, having all the Model 1911A1 features although the right side of the slide is marked "MODEL OF 1911.U.S.ARMY". The transitional changes included: (1) modified main spring housing, (2) milled clearance on the sides of the receiver behind the trigger, (3) shortened hammer, (4) lengthened grip safety tang and (5) reduced trigger length. The diamonds on the stocks surrounding the screws were eliminated . The pistol features a brush blue finish. Although the "Transitional" pistols were delivered to the Army, Springfield Research Service records show large numbers of these pistols were actually issued to the Navy. The left side of the frame directly below the slide stop is stamped with the early placement "WTG" (Walter T. Gorton) monogram in a circle utilized on only the first approximately 100 pistols. The opposite side is marked: "UNITED STATES PROPERTY / No 709771". The left side of the slide has the Colt 1897-1913 patent dates in a two-line block followed by the two-line Hartford address. The Rampant Colt motif is located between the two blocks. The rear of the slide is marked with the "H" inspection mark above the firing pin stop. The top of the barrel at the chamber is marked with the "HP" with the common leg and the upper right side of the trigger guard is marked with a "20". The grips are the full checkered walnut pattern introduced on the "Transitional" Model 1911 pistol. The sights are fixed low profile, the trigger, slide stop, thumb safety, hammer and main spring housing are checkered, the magazine is two tone blue with the letter "A" marked on top of the toe and there is a lanyard ring on the heel.
BBL: 5 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 45 ACP
Finish: blue
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 709771
Condition: Refinished. The slide is a mix of scattered original thin blue finish mixed with smooth brown patina. The frame has a brown patina with scattered minor pitting. The grips are about good with some moderate to heavy wear on the lower edge, scattered minor bruises and dents, and for the most part crisp checkering. The markings (slide markings highlighted in white) are crisp and clear. Mechanically excellent.