Lot 1643: H.G. Barner Marked Experimental Prototype Colt Model 1911/1911A1

This interesting prototype pistol appears to have been made up of mostly Colt manufactured parts, possibly even in the Colt factory. The only external markings on the pistol are "H.G. BARNER" over the experimental serial number "EXP. 304-0662" on the right of the frame and a "P" proof on top of the slide. It is unclear whether or not Barner was a Colt employee or if he manufactured this interesting frame himself and used mostly Colt parts to finish the pistol. The most prominent feature that this pistol appears to have been experimenting with is the front strap which has been machined with three deep finger grooves. Other than the front strap the pistol shows mostly 1911A1 features including blade and notch sights, wide checkered hammer, long grip safety, short stamped trigger, and an arched serrated mainspring housing with a lanyard loop. The barrel is marked "F" on the bottom and "P" on the lug and the full blue magazine is unmarked. Provenance: The Gus Cargile Collection

Fine, showing mostly in the white metal with a bright grey patina overall and some scattered patches of brown. The trigger guard has had some metal removed from the left side. The grips are very good with some scattered light handling marks and mostly crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.