Also the 1905 marine model has a very different frame, I was totally off base on that.
Unlike Smith & Wesson, the number on the frame below the barrel and under the cylinder yoke is the true serial number.472971 is engraved on both sides
The "J" is the Inspectors mark. That is a 4th Model Detective Special built on the "D" frame.As the thread suggests, I'm looking for help identifying a Colt in order to order replacement grips for a friend of mine.
A search of Colt database returns the most likely candidate of a 1965 Colt Trooper. But, correct me if I'm wrong those were issued in. 357? This pistol is currently configured in .38spl.
Identifying marks
Smooth exposed backstrap
2" Colt Detective SPL barrel
"J" etched in frame (visible under broken grip)
Serial 43***R
T.
Triangle with VP inside it (located forward upper left side of trigger guard)
So, should I put stock in the j etching and buy a J frame grip, or should I expect it to be the E&I style (that I believe was being manufactured in 1965) . Im very new to Colt pistols so please correct anything I've gotten wrong so far. Thanks for the assistance
Looks like 1980. Around here, I would expect to see a 6" Trooper Mk3 in excellent condition with $700 on the tag. A bit more in nickel finish or with the original box, much less in rough condition.A friend of mine has a lightly used Colt revolver (less than 1,000 rounds - mix of .38 Spl and .357 Mag). Need a DOB and possibly an approximate value.
Colt Trooper Mk III
Adjustable sights
.357 Magnum
6 inch barrel
Serial number 656**L
View attachment 864594 View attachment 864595 View attachment 864596
The "J" is the Inspectors mark. That is a 4th Model Detective Special built on the "D" frame.
Here is some more info on your pistol:
http://www.coltfever.com/Detective_Special.html
Thanks! So is the Colt free database just that unreliable? It only returns results when I use the numbers without letters. And the newest results are two different models in 1965, the majority of the rest are 1920 or older.
Trooper/ Python and Ofc.Police/Army Spl. grips will not fit, but late production Detective Special, Police Positive, and Diamondback grips will.
Looks like 1980. Around here, I would expect to see a 6" Trooper Mk3 in excellent condition with $700 on the tag. A bit more in nickel finish or with the original box, much less in rough condition.
Are you sure its a Special? AFAIK, the Specials were only chambered in .32-20 and .38 Special.Colt Police Positive Special
32 Colt N.P. CTG stamped on barrel
Checkered wood grips w/medallion
5" ish barrel
6 shot
Serated top strap with gutter sight
Serial 9566xx
Colt's serial lookup says it could be 1964 or 1967. Same description on both. Any clue?
Are you sure its a Special? AFAIK, the Specials were only chambered in .32-20 and .38 Special.
Ooooooo pics plz!Most certainly. That whole first part is stamped right on the barrel, and very crisply I might add. Its in pristine condition as well, like it was barely fired. Not a Royal Blue finish, but a very pretty blackish blue finish.