Colt Combat Commander Lightweight 1911 .45 ACP Semi-Automatic Pistol 1977
SOLD FOR: $805
WOA#: WY231013DG070
Make: Colt
Model: Combat Commander Lightweight Model, Pre-Series ’80
Serial Number: CLW032586
Year of Manufacture: 1977 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic fed by Removable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “COMBAT / COMMANDER”, “COLT”, “AUTOMATIC / CALIBER .45” and with a Rampant Colt logo. The right side of the slide is marked “COLT’S COMBAT COMMANDER MODEL”. The right side of the frame is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.” and “CLW032586”. The barrel at the port is marked “-COLT .45 AUTO-”. The left-rear of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle, the left-front with “0”. The right front of the trigger guard is marked “D”.
Barrel Length: 4.25”.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a ramped blade fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a rectangular notch sight dovetailed to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood. There are some light tool marks around the grip screws and a few other minor marks. The checkering is generally well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good-plus condition as not original to the gun. The front strap has been grip taped.
Type of Finish: Blued & Black
Finish Originality: Original with some replaced parts.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. The bore does need a light cleaning as there is some fouling in the grooves.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 90% of its metal finish. The action shows some operational wear. The action has light operational wear. The safety has been modified to a slimmer profile. The beaver tail and main spring housing are stainless. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Good condition as customized.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide has minor play to the frame and the trigger is crisp. We did not fire 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 a total of one Colt marked 7 round magazine in Very Good condition.
Our Assessment: The Colt Combat Commander Lightweight in .45 ACP represents a significant chapter in the storied history of the 1911 pistol, one of the most iconic and enduring designs in the world of firearms. The Combat Commander, introduced by Colt in the 1950s, was a response to the growing demand for a more compact and lightweight version of the full-sized M1911A1, which had served as the standard-issue sidearm for the U.S. Armed Forces since World War I.
The main distinction of the Combat Commander model lies in its size and construction. Unlike the full-sized 1911, the Combat Commander features a shorter barrel and slide, reducing the overall length and weight of the pistol, making it more suitable for concealed carry and quick-draw scenarios. The “Lightweight” variant of the Combat Commander further enhances this aspect by featuring an aluminum alloy frame instead of the traditional steel frame. This reduction in weight makes the pistol significantly easier to carry for extended periods, a crucial factor for both military personnel and civilian users.
Chambered in .45 ACP, the Combat Commander Lightweight maintains the powerful stopping power and reliability that the 1911 is known for. The design retains the single-action trigger mechanism, thumb safety, and grip safety of the original 1911, ensuring a consistent and familiar user experience. Over the years, the Colt Combat Commander Lightweight has become a favored choice among law enforcement officers, military personnel, and civilian shooters for its balance of firepower, reliability, and ease of carry. It represents Colt’s commitment to innovation and adaptation, reflecting the evolving needs of handgun users while maintaining the core qualities of the legendary 1911 design. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
