Just got a couple of old Colts

[Tierhog]

My mother in law passed away recently. My father in law decided to give me his old pistols.

Colt Super 38 1911, 5 digit serial #, almost perfect condition.
Colt 32 hammerless, dated 1908, 5 digit serial #, lots of surface corrosion but seems pretty solid, has homemade grips.

He also gave me a couple of boxes of ammunition that he bought when he got the guns a long time ago. The Colt 32 was his fathers gun he kept in the drawer at his candy store, the 38 was kept at home. These guns are now family heirlooms. I would like to have the 32 restored, the 38 is perfect the way it is. Any advise on how to clean up the 32? What ammo should I get for the super 38? or for the 32? I would like to fire the 32 at least once, so would my wife. I am thinking of the 38 for my wifes carry gun,. or maybe mine.

Any 1911 guys out there with some advice, it sure would be appreciated.

 

[dsk]

The .32 is just a shooter at this point. The .38 Super is another matter entirely. If it's in near-perfect condition it is worth some pretty big bucks to a collector. Whatever you do, DO NOT modify it or turn it into a carry gun. If you need another carry gun, sell it and use the money for a really nice new semi-custom 1911.

 

[jsalcedo]

Get the .32 refurbished with finish, grips and springs and you will have a VERY nice back up gun.


I've seen some that look like they have been on a river bottom for a period of time that still go for over $300

 

[Tierhog]

Wheres a good place to find out about these pistols? I have done web searches but cant seem to find much info or values.

 

[StrikeEagle]

Well, you asked advice... here's mine. Please don't refinish the pistols. As you say, they are family heirlooms now. Refinishing just degrades a gun of this type, IMO. I'd replace any broken parts, but I'd keep them as 'original' as possible... just like the old guy had 'em.

*Sigh* I wish I had my dad's old gun. *Big Sigh*

StrikeEagle

 

[dsk]

Wheres a good place to find out about these pistols? I have done web searches but cant seem to find much info or values.

http://www.coltautos.com is a good place to start.

 

[ulflyer]

Check out this thread for pics and info about the 32:

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=163633

 

[BluesBear]

Your .38 Super Government Model can safely fire all .38 Super and .38 ACP ammo.

It has quite a bit of collectors value. Hell's Bells™ the original magazines along are worth a pretty penny. (It should have two)