Make: Colt
Model: Army Special
Serial Number: 476035
Year of Manufacture: 1922
Caliber: .32-20 WCF
Action Type: Double Action Revolver with Swing Out Cylinder
Barrel Length: 5"
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a "U"-notch integral to the top strap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered black hard rubber with "COLT" in oval at their tops, stylized "C" around the screw escutcheons, and fleur de lis accents. The inside of each panel has the serial number hand-scribed. The grips have only a few minor marks on their bottom faces. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine-Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is a little bit of minor erosion at the muzzle-end. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. The finish is strong throughout. There are a few very minor marks. There are infrequent spots of faint oxidation, mostly on the frame around the hammer. The action shows minor operational wear with a thin turn-line on the cylinder, mostly not through the finish.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Colt Army Special .32-20 WCF is a versatile and robust revolver introduced by Colt in 1908, originally designed to serve military, law enforcement, and civilian markets. Chambered in the .32-20 Winchester Center Fire cartridge, this revolver was well-suited for both self-defense and small game hunting, offering a unique blend of power and accuracy. The .32-20 WCF cartridge, initially developed for rifles, was known for its flat trajectory and mild recoil, making it an excellent choice for target shooting and varmint control.
The Army Special was built on Colt's medium-sized E-frame, which provided a strong and durable platform while still being manageable for everyday carry. Typically featuring a 4 to 6-inch barrel, the revolver was praised for its balance, ease of handling, and precise shooting capabilities. The double-action trigger allowed for rapid firing, while the single-action mode offered accuracy and control.
The Colt Army Special was later rebranded as the Colt Official Police, becoming one of the most widely used law enforcement revolvers in the United States. Its solid construction, reliability, and adaptability across different calibers, including the .32-20 W.C.F., have made it a favorite among collectors and firearms enthusiasts. This example is in exceptional shape, retaining 98% of its beautiful blue finish, a nice bore and strong mechanics. Colt collectors may have to wait quite a while to find another specimen in this condition. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid!
