How to Tell Colt SAA Custom Shop Version

[ZBill]

I am looking at a few 3rd Generation Colt .45 SAA's. How do I tell if they have been throught the Colt Custom Shop? Is there a marking somewhere?
Also, are the 3rd generation Colt frames case hardened or just have a case hardened finish. Thank you, Bill

 

[Wildalaska]

Got the box? Some have custom shop lables What year are you talking about? I think from 81 on they are all "custom shop"

Frames are cased

WildcoltseverywhereAlaska

 

[ZBill]

Thanks

No box available on the 1981. Looking at the 1981 3rd generation with dull greyish, silver casehardening (no box) and two 1993's (with boxes) with spectacular colors (blues, maroons, nearly oranges, greens). Given the prices are about the same for all three ($1,100) and conditions about the same (98%+ to my eye) would the 1981 version carry any premium over the others due to date of manufacture? Anything a novice should beware of? Thanks, Bill

 

[BlkHawk73]

get the serial #'s and call colt.

 

[Wildalaska]

Is the gun you are buying for shooting or collecting? If collecting a third gen, must be unturned and unfired in box. Repeat..unturned and unfired. For shooting, either buy a new one (they are made better now) or talk the guy donw on one of the 93s, a 98% Colt 3rd absent special features isnt worth $1100, maybe more like $899 retail....

I just picked up a nice 99% fired 3rd gen, no box, 70s vintage, with fauz Colt pearl grips, thats gonna go for about $1000


WildponyboyAlaska

 

[ZBill]

Thanks

Thank you for the advice. I'll go bargain tomorrow and will get one of the 93's if the price is right. Regards, Bill