The Colt Police Positive Special, a revolver steeped in history and beloved by collectors, holds a fascinating story within its serial numbers. Understanding these serial numbers can unlock a wealth of information about your specific firearm, including its age, manufacturing date, and even potentially its history. This guide delves into the intricacies of Colt Police Positive Special serial numbers, offering a comprehensive look at how to decipher their meaning and what that information can tell you.
Understanding Colt Serial Numbering Systems
Colt's serial number system, while generally consistent, has undergone changes throughout its history. Precisely dating a Colt Police Positive Special requires careful attention to detail and sometimes, cross-referencing with Colt's own records (if accessible). The system isn't always perfectly linear; there can be gaps and overlaps depending on production rates and other factors.
Key Considerations for Colt Police Positive Specials:
- Production Years: Colt Police Positive Specials were manufactured over a significant period. Knowing the approximate manufacturing range helps narrow down the possibilities when examining the serial number.
- Variations in Numbering: The format of the serial number itself can provide clues. Some might be purely numerical, while others might include letters or other markings.
- Factory Records: While not always readily accessible, Colt's factory records offer the most accurate dating information. However, accessing these records can be challenging.
- Online Resources: Numerous websites and forums dedicated to Colt firearms provide valuable resources and databases for cross-referencing serial numbers.
Deciphering Your Colt Police Positive Special Serial Number
Let's break down the process of deciphering your Colt Police Positive Special's serial number. While a precise year is often difficult to pinpoint without extensive research, a range can usually be established. The serial number itself is your primary source of information.
Steps to Decipher Your Serial Number:
- Locate the Serial Number: The serial number is typically found on the butt of the revolver's frame, under the cylinder, and sometimes on the barrel.
- Record the Number Carefully: Accurately transcribe the number, including any letters or symbols.
- Consult Online Resources: Several websites dedicated to Colt firearms offer serial number lookup tools or databases. Use these resources to cross-reference your number.
- Examine the Number's Format: The format itself (e.g., purely numerical, alphanumeric) can give clues about the production period.
- Consider the Gun's Condition and Features: Features like the grips, finish, and other markings can further help narrow down the production timeframe.
Example: Let's say you have a Colt Police Positive Special with the serial number "123456." By consulting online resources, you might find that this range falls within a specific period of production, perhaps between 1910 and 1920.
Common Serial Number Patterns and Variations
While a precise breakdown by serial number range is impractical here due to the vast number of guns produced and the evolution of Colt's numbering system, you'll observe some patterns. Early models often have simpler numbering systems, while later models might introduce alphabetic characters or more complex numbering sequences.
Note: The information below is for illustrative purposes. Always cross-reference with reputable sources and specialized Colt databases.
Beyond the Numbers: Other Identifying Marks
Beyond the serial number itself, other markings on your Colt Police Positive Special can provide valuable information:
- Proof Marks: These marks indicate that the firearm passed inspection.
- Factory Markings: Markings identifying the manufacturing location or specific aspects of the firearm's construction.
- Grips: The type of grips can provide additional clues about the age and model.
Case Study: A Colt Police Positive Special
Imagine you find a Colt Police Positive Special with a serial number beginning with "A12345." Through researching Colt's historical records and utilizing online resources, you may discover that this serial number indicates a production date within a specific range, for example, the 1920s. By then comparing the gun's features with known characteristics of Colt Police Positive Specials from that era, you can further refine the dating process.
Conclusion: Uncovering Your Colt's Story
The serial number of your Colt Police Positive Special acts as a key to unlock a wealth of information about its history. By carefully examining the number, consulting reliable resources, and considering other markings, you can gain a deeper appreciation for this classic revolver and its place in firearms history. Remember that diligent research is key, and accuracy demands cross-referencing multiple sources. Happy hunting!