Make: Colt

Model: Official Police

Serial Number: 709399

Year of Manufacture: 1943

Caliber: .38 Special

Action Type: Double Action SA/DA Revolver with Swing Out Cylinder

Barrel Length: 4"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel above the muzzle. The rear sight is a square notch integral to the top strap. The top strap is serrated for glare reduction.

Grip Configuration & Condition: The grip is a one-piece checkered black rubber Pachmayr Presentation grip. The grip has minor handling wear with a few light marks. The grip fits with a gap along the frontstrap. The checkering is well defined. There are no rips or tears. Overall, the grip is in Fine condition as not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, just a little stubborn copper fouling. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9+/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 87% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at all edges. There are a few other spots of light finish wear. There is infrequent faint surface oxidation. There are a couple of light nicks and tiny scratches. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used 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 never able to interest the Army in a 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 1943 and shows signs of responsible use over the last 80+ years. The gun shows light cosmetic wear, retaining about 90% of its original finish with a nice bore and strong mechanics. This is a nice example of quality Colt craftsmanship and should make a fine shooter for its next owner. That said, this well-maintained revolver would also make a good addition to a Colt collection missing an Official Police. Please see our photos and good luck!