US Army WWI Colt Model 1917 M1917 .45 ACP 5.5” 6 Shot Revolver MFD 1918 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,025
WOA#: WY240217TR008
Make: Colt
Model: M1917, Colt DA 45.
Serial Number: COLT-272371, US GOV.-120817
Year of Manufacture: 1918
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single Action/Double Action Revolver w/ Swing Out Fluted Cylinder, with ejector. Designed for Moon Clips.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT.F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A. / PAT’D AUG.5.1884. JUNE 5. 1900 JULY 4.1905.”. The left side of the barrel is marked “COLT. D.A. 45”. There is a Rampant Colt on the left side of the frame. The underside of the barrel is marked “UNITED STATES PROPERTY”. The crane cut and crane are marked “272371”. The butt is marked “U.S. / ARMY / MODEL / 1917 / NO / 120817”.
Barrel Length: 5.5”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a groove in the top strap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are smooth walnut grips. The grips have light surface scratches and compressions throughout. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the grips are in Good to Very Good condition. There is a lanyard swivel present on the butt.
Type of Finish: Rough finish parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is well defined. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 80% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows scattered surface scratches and handling wear. The back strap has some notable scrapes in the metal. There is a visible turn line. The markings are generally legible. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. Overall, this revolver is in Good condition for C&R considering its age.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards. The timing is good. There is solid lockup on all cylinders with little play and no play when the trigger is fully depressed. The double action trigger pull is smooth but heavy. The single action is light and crisp.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This pistol includes one Moon clip and an original military holster in Very Good condition. There leather in untorn and poliable. There are some loose storage marks throughout consistent to light storage wear and some patina around the brass. The holster still has its lanyard ring at the end.
Our Assessment: The Colt M1917 revolver is an iconic firearm that played a significant role during World War I and beyond. Developed by Colt’s Manufacturing Company to meet the demand for large-caliber handguns for military use, this revolver is based on the sturdy New Service platform. What sets the M1917 apart is its chambering for the .45 ACP cartridge, the same round used in the Colt M1911 semi-automatic pistol, making it a formidable sidearm. Constructed with a steel frame and cylinder, the Colt M1917 exudes durability and reliability. Its six-round cylinder and availability in various barrel lengths make it versatile for different applications. Notably, the M1917 utilizes moon clips to accommodate the rimless .45 ACP cartridge, ensuring smooth extraction and ejection of spent casings. During World War I, the Colt M1917 revolver was issued to American troops, including officers, non-commissioned officers, and other personnel who needed a reliable handgun for close-quarters combat. Its powerful .45 ACP chambering made it effective against both enemy personnel and equipment, earning it a reputation for reliability and stopping power on the battlefield. After the war, many Colt M1917 revolvers continued in military service and found use among law enforcement agencies and civilian shooters. Some were sold as surplus and became prized possessions in private collections due to their historical significance and rugged design. Today, the Colt M1917 revolver remains highly regarded for its role in military history and its association with the .45 ACP cartridge. The Colt M1917 stands as a testament to Colt’s commitment to quality and innovation, leaving an indelible mark on firearms history. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!! -R.L.
