What do I have?

[beagle runr]

This is my first post and if I'm in the wrong area I'm sorry. I've looked over many sights looking for a picture of the 1911 like I purchased 10 years ago with no luck. I'll include pic. later if needed.

Colt next to hammer. United Stated property on lower barrel. Patented dates 1897 to 1918 along upper barrel. Serial number in the 165K range. I have shot about a dozen rounds through it and don't know if I should use it again or not.

I also have the orginal holster and a orginal box of ammo along with a short history of the soldier who used it in WW1

Any help greatly appreciated.

Thank you

[RickB]

Sounds like an early Colt M1911. To the casual observer, all Colts made between 1912 and the 1920s look alike, so the fact that you can't find a pic of one like it would indicate that the gun has been modified in some way. If you want help with the gun's originality, collectibility, etc., you will have to post some (good) pictures.

[Johnny Peppers]

Knowing the caliber would be a great clue, as well as the other markings. Sounds like a revolver from the USP location. Is the serial number on the butt of the pistol, or where is it? The 1918 patent date just about assures it was not used in WWI.

[beagle runr]

I looked over the gun and my notes and i made a couple mistakes in the first post. Camera battery dead so I will post pics tomorrow.

The patent date is not 1918 but 1913. My eyes are going bad. The gun was used in the early 1900's by a Sgt Albert, US Army Cavalry. His unit was one of the first sent to France and he also served under Gen. "Black Jack" Pershing during the border disputes with Mexico.

It is a 45 cal. The serial number is just above the trigger.

Thanks for your help

[Johnny Peppers]

Colt next to hammer. United Stated property on lower barrel. Patented dates 1897 to 1918 along upper barrel.


The United States Property is on the frame/receiver, and the patent dates are on the slide. I read it through and envisioned a barrel like a revolver.

[beagle runr]

Hers the pics. thanks for your help and info. Any other comments about use and condition helpful.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w7/michhuntr/P1000321.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w7/michhuntr/P1000314.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w7/michhuntr/P1000308.jpg

[RickB]

That appears to be a VERY nice Colt M1911. My references indicate 1917 manufacture. The dark photos make it hard to really tell, but it looks like the small parts and finish are correct and original. I may be missing something, but as I noted, all military Colts up through the mid-1920s look generally alike, so what are you seeing that you haven't seen in pics of other pistols?

[TattooPaul]

The serial number (and stampings on top of the receiver, with the slide off) would identify if it is a gov't contract or a civilian model. So far it looks like a nice one, whether civilian or military.

[RickB]

The frame does say United States Property on the left side.

[1saxman]

It's beauty, buddy! Sure looks like original finish from here. Do it a favor and give it a good going over with a good gun oil product, and don't keep it in the holster.

[Joni Lynn]

Your 1911 appears to be in excellent condition for its age.