Make: Colt

Model: Custom Model of 1911 U.S. Army

Serial Number: 163593

Year of Manufacture: 1917

Caliber: .45 ACP

Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto with Removable Magazine

Barrel Length: 5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a tall, serrated blade fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a square-notch dovetailed and screw-set to the rear of the slide. The sights are not original to the gun.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered wood with smooth diamonds around the grip screws. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Excellent condition as not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Refinished. Most parts are WWI 1911, the sights and Micro bushing are replacement parts.

Bore Condition: The bore is gray with well defined rifling. There is scattered light erosion and minor pitting in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 6-7/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 96% of its current metal finish. The finish is generally strong throughout. There are a few scattered light marks and operational wear. There is infrequent minor erosion and some nicks under the finish. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Very Good-Fine condition as refinished and customized.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with one 7-round commercial Colt magazine.

Our Assessment: The 1911 and 1911-A1 pistols served the military of the United States from 1911 to 1985, through two World Wars and the Korean and Vietnam wars. They gained a reputation as a reliable handgun with plenty of stopping power, and are held in high regard by those who have used them. This is a Colt Model 1911 that was made during WWI in 1917. The pistol has been customized with a set of high-profile sights, new grips and a Micro barrel bushing. The pistol has been refinished, so it looks great for its age, and it ought to prove to be a fun shooter. It would also be a good candidate for restoration to its original WWI configuration. Please see our photos and good luck!