Lot #367
Lot #369

Lot 368: Colt Experimental .380 Hammerless Semi-Automatic Pistol

Documented Colt Experimental .380 Hammerless Pocket Model Semi-Automatic Pistol with Factory Letter

Auction Date: April 13, 2018

Lot 368: Colt Experimental .380 Hammerless Semi-Automatic Pistol

Documented Colt Experimental .380 Hammerless Pocket Model Semi-Automatic Pistol with Factory Letter

Auction Date: April 13, 2018

Estimated Price: $2,500 - $4,000
Price Realized:

Documented Colt Experimental .380 Hammerless Pocket Model Semi-Automatic Pistol with Factory Letter

Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Experimental
Type: Pistol
Gauge: 380 ACP
Barrel: 3 1/4 inch
Finish: blue
Grip: walnut
Stock:
Item Views: 9947
Item Interest: Active
Serial Number:
Catalog Page: 136
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Description:

This pistol is somewhat similar to the early Colt hammerless pistols and was designed to replace the Model 1908 Hammerless (Model M) pistols issued to U.S. general officers, and in fact, this pistol "GX2501-1 was made up from a scrapped Model M," as discussed on page 35 of "The Colt Pocket Hammerless Automatic Pistols" by Brunner. The consecutive prototype, "GX2501-2," is pictured and discussed on pages 34-35 and listed as "an attempt to develop a postwar .380 pistol to replace the Model M." That example is listed as from the Connecticut State Library collection. Brunner notes that three variations were produced, and two remained in the Colt Engineering Reference Collection. The first drawing for this model was dated 1946, and Brunner notes the second prototype was sent to the Engineering Department on February 2, 1953, which provides a rough time frame for when this pistol was manufactured. It has pistol has a fixed blade front sight, dovetailed notch rear sight, "GX 2501-1" on the right side of the frame, manual thumb, safety short grip safety, magazine disconnect safety, serrated grips with nickel Colt medallions, and no visible markings aside from the serial number. The factory letter confirms that this is a hammerless pocket model prototype and was manufactured around 1946 in Colt's Model Room and then kept in the Engineering Vault.

Rating Definition:

Excellent with 95% plus original blue finish and mild scratches and marks. The grips are very good and have some dents and scratches. Mechanically appears fine (magazine absent).



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