COLT 1917 .45 ACP

The Colt M1917 was a design born of necessity, as the standard M1911 service pistol was complex to build, they came in short supply during the First World War. As such Colt Quickly reworked their New Service Model to accept the standard .45 ACP service cartridge, using “Moon Clips”, this allowed rear echelon troops to continue to be issued a sidearm while the more advanced M1911 was moved to the front lines. This example, made in 1918 is in good overall external condition, with much of its finish faded to brown and some light pitting on the frame, as well as initials on the right sideplate. Unfortunately there seems to be something wrong with the lockwork / timing, as the bolt does not rise into place when cycled in single action. This timing issue was likely ignored during the war, as it functions normally in double action, the other possibility is that it may have been rebuilt from spare parts.