Intro
Discover the fascinating history and unique features of the 38 Colt Detective, a compact revolver that revolutionized concealed carry. Learn six surprising facts about this iconic firearm, from its origins in the 1920s to its popularity among law enforcement and civilians, and explore its impact on self-defense and firearms design.
The Colt Detective Special, also known as the 38 Colt Detective, is a revolver that has been in production since 1927. It is a compact, six-shot handgun that has become iconic in American firearms culture. Here are six facts about the 38 Colt Detective that you might find interesting:
1. Designed for Concealed Carry
The Colt Detective Special was designed specifically for concealed carry. Its compact size and lightweight frame made it an ideal choice for law enforcement officers and civilians alike who needed a reliable sidearm for self-defense. The revolver's short barrel and smooth trigger pull made it easy to draw and fire from a holster or pocket.
Specifications
- Caliber:.38 Special
- Barrel Length: 2 inches
- Overall Length: 6.5 inches
- Weight: 21.5 ounces
- Capacity: 6 rounds
2. The First Production Run
The first production run of the Colt Detective Special began in 1927. The initial models were chambered in.32 Colt New Police and.38 Colt New Police, but the.38 Special became the most popular caliber. The early models featured a square butt and a black finish.
3. Iconic Status in American Firearms Culture
The Colt Detective Special has appeared in numerous films and television shows, often as the sidearm of choice for detectives and law enforcement officers. Its popularity can be attributed to its compact size, reliability, and iconic design. Many firearms enthusiasts and collectors consider the Colt Detective Special to be a classic American revolver.
In Popular Culture
- The Colt Detective Special has appeared in films such as "Dirty Harry" and "The Untouchables."
- It has also been featured in television shows like "Dragnet" and "The Andy Griffith Show."
4. Various Models and Variations
Over the years, Colt has produced various models and variations of the Detective Special. Some notable models include:
- The Detective Special II, which featured a stainless steel finish and a heavier trigger pull.
- The Detective Special III, which had a redesigned frame and a smoother trigger pull.
- The Magnum Carry, which was chambered in.357 Magnum and featured a longer barrel.
5. Discontinued and Reintroduced
The Colt Detective Special was discontinued in 1995, but it was reintroduced in 1997 as a limited edition model. The new model featured a stainless steel finish and a redesigned frame. In 2014, Colt discontinued the Detective Special once again, but it remains a popular collector's item among firearms enthusiasts.
Collectibility
- The Colt Detective Special is highly sought after by collectors due to its iconic design and limited production runs.
- Early models and rare variations can sell for thousands of dollars at auction.
6. Legacy and Impact
The Colt Detective Special has had a lasting impact on the firearms industry. Its compact size and reliability have influenced the design of many modern handguns. The revolver's iconic status in American firearms culture has also made it a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts.
38 Colt Detective Image Gallery
We hope you've enjoyed learning about the 38 Colt Detective. Whether you're a firearms enthusiast, a collector, or simply someone interested in learning more about this iconic revolver, we hope you've found this article informative and engaging. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them with us below!