Colt M1917

[leftyk82]

I just acquired a Colt M1917 DA revolver. Serial number dates it to being made in 1918. It is far from mint but everything works as it should. I have no clue on the history of this particular piece.

Anyone have one of these?

Couple more questions. Did you get a letter from Colt stating it's authenticity/original owner? Reblue/refinish? Is it worth holding onto or selling ?

Might be a needle in a haystack but I'd appreciate the input.

[gregintenn]

I have a Smith and Wesson 1917, but no matching Colt as of yet. These revolvers were made for the military as a stopgap measure because the military was unable to procure 1911s as fast as they needed them. I believe Colt will provide a letter on handguns for a fee. There were commercial models available as well.

In case you aren't aware, your Colt is chambered for the 45 ACP, and can be fired with 45acp in half moon or full moon clips. There is also 45 Autorim ammo available. Assuming your revolver is in original condition, it is a somewhat valuable collector's piece, as well as a great shooter.

Does it have smooth grips or checkered? A dull finish or high gloss blueing? Does it have a lanyard ring on the butt? Post some pics please.

[leftyk82]

As I'm new to the forum, I haven't figured out how to post pics yet. Can someone host? If so, I'll email them.

The grips are smooth, appear to be the original (walnut?). The finish is very, how do you say, salty. There is light/medium freckling on most of the gun, although it appears to be original, i.e. no rebluing or parkerized. Definitely not the type of condition that you'd be afraid to shoot. Rifling in the barrel is visible and appears to be in good shape. It does have the lanyard ring on the bottom and all the appropriate markings, U.S. Property etc.

According to what I read, Colt and S&W each made 150k of these? Then, they released civilian models that bear close resemblance to the military ones.

The letter from Colt would be $100. I've been told it adds value to the firearm and I'm very curious about who first purchased it, although I'm fearful it would read something like 'XYZ Distributors' or something generic like that.

[Guest pfries]

Pics for Ya

[Garufa]

Looks original to me. A Colt letter will get you nothing but specs, a date shipped and delivered to "the US govenment" based on the samples I've seen.

[Moped]

Nice looking pistol! It looks like a great collector! Congrats!

[gregintenn]

Your letter would likely state that it was part of a shipment to th U.S. Ordinance Department, as it is a military version. Although the revolver has seen service, it appears to be in pretty fair shape for a 90 plus year old gun. I personally wouldn't spend the money for a letter, as it wouldn't prove any provenance with the gun. It is a fine collector, shooter, conversation piece, and a part of American history. Nice score!!!

It is definitely worth holding on to, or it would bring some pretty serious coin if you decided to sell it. It does not appear to have been refinished.

Grab some moon clips, 45 ammo, and give it a go. I believe you'll be surprised.

[leftyk82]

Thanks everyone for the insight/help/tips!

I think I'll keep this slice of Americana just the way she is.

[TnEngineer]

This was the first handgun my father gave to me so, I cherish it. Do the moon clip thing. You may be surprised at how well those plain sights will work. For kicks, pick up a lanyard sometime just to add to it.

You can also get nice replica military flap holsters.

Pacific Canvas & Leather Co. INC

[Dave Shooter]

Unless it is one of the early guns with bored through charge holes (no headspace ledge) it will chamber and fire .45 ACP ammo without using clips. I've done just that with a Colt 1917 and newer Smith 625. You have to pick out the empties with finger nail, another cartridge rim or similar but it's not a big deal. If you PM me your address I'll mail you a couple full moon clips.