Make: Colt

Model: Official Police

Serial Number: 874593

Year of Manufacture: 1960

Caliber: .38 Special

Action Type: Single Action/Double Action with Swing Out Cylinder

Barrel Length: 4"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch integral to the topstrap. The edges of the rear sight groove are serrated for glare reduction.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece wood-backed faux-stag plastic panels. The grips have a few light nicks and scratches. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good condition as not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is some light erosion in the bore, mostly at the muzzle-end. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 7 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 94% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at some edges, most notable at the muzzle and the leading edges of the cylinder. There is a spot of finish wear on the bottom of the trigger guard. There is a notable scratch on the right of the frame behind the trigger guard. There are a few other scattered minor marks. The action shows operational wear including a thin turn-line on the cylinder. The sides of the hammer spur have minor discoloration from oxidation. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Very Good-plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Colt Army Special was introduced with the Army in mind, and quickly came to be noted for its accuracy, winning the National Revolver Match in 1911 and establishing a new range record at Camp Perry the same year. Unfortunately, Colt was not able to interest the Army in a new medium framed revolver, and changed its name to the “Official Police” in 1928 after they found that the New York Police Department, among others, were willing to adopt the revolver.

This Official Police was produced in 1960 and shows signs of responsible use over the last 65 years. The gun retains about 94% of its original finish with a decent bore and strong mechanics. This is a nice example of quality Colt craftsmanship and should make a fine shooter to this very day. Please see our photos and good luck!