A Glimpse into the Past: The Colt Army Special’s Genesis
The story of the Colt Army Special begins in an era of rapid innovation and expansion. As the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries unfolded, the demand for reliable, accurate handguns for both law enforcement and civilian use was steadily growing. Colt, a company already known for its innovative revolver designs, aimed to meet this evolving need with a new model. Its introduction offered a robust and dependable platform, distinct from its predecessors, setting the stage for widespread adoption.
The design, conceived to bridge the gap between the smaller frame of the Colt Police Positive and the larger frame of the Colt New Service, aimed to strike a balance between manageability and power. This strategic positioning made the Army Special attractive to a broader range of users, from patrol officers to individuals seeking personal protection. The revolver quickly gained popularity within law enforcement circles, and its adoption by various departments cemented its reputation as a practical and reliable firearm.
The Reign of the 32-20: A Cartridge of Its Time
The 32-20 Winchester cartridge, born from the need for a dual-purpose cartridge for rifles and revolvers, played a vital role in the Army Special’s success. It’s important to understand the context of its creation, tied with the expansion of Winchester rifles. This round, designed for both rifles and revolvers, offered a blend of accuracy and manageable recoil, making it suitable for a variety of applications.
Its popularity blossomed due to its versatility. The 32-20, firing a bullet around 100 grains, was accurate enough for target shooting and effective at short to medium ranges. Its relatively mild recoil made it user-friendly, while offering sufficient power for self-defense and small game hunting. Farmers, ranchers, and individuals in more remote areas valued the ability to carry one type of ammunition for both their rifle and revolver, simplifying logistics and improving preparedness. This shared ammunition characteristic was a major selling point.
Anatomy of the Colt Army Special: Exploring the Features
The Colt Army Special’s design reflects an era when craftsmanship was paramount. Typically constructed from blued steel, its frame provided a sturdy base for its robust mechanism. The grips, most frequently crafted from checkered hard rubber or wood, offer a comfortable and secure hold. The barrel lengths varied, commonly ranging from four to six inches, influencing both the revolver’s balance and its ballistic performance.
The cylinder, designed to accommodate six rounds of the 32-20 cartridge, was a testament to Colt’s engineering expertise. The Army Special employed Colt’s swing-out cylinder design. The cylinder’s chambering and ejection systems were pivotal, enabling fast reloading and rapid firing. These features, combined with the revolver’s inherent reliability, made it a formidable tool for the time. Its well-balanced design, coupled with the smooth action, contributed to its pleasant shooting characteristics.
The sights were usually a basic open-sight configuration, consisting of a fixed front sight and a notch rear sight. While not as advanced as modern sights, these provided sufficient accuracy for the intended applications. The finish, typically bluing, not only protected the steel from corrosion but also gave the revolver a sleek and classic appearance.
The Shooting Experience: A Symphony of Mechanics
Firing a Colt Army Special chambered in 32-20 is more than just pulling the trigger; it’s a journey back in time. The distinct feeling of the hammer being cocked and the smooth action is a direct link to generations of gun enthusiasts. Holding it, you appreciate the balance and craftsmanship.
The recoil, especially with the 32-20, is manageable, making for a comfortable shooting experience. Even with lighter loads, there’s a satisfying report from the 32-20, and the feeling of the weapon’s energy on recoil is noticeable. The Colt Army Special in this caliber is not meant for speed shooting contests. Instead, it excels at controlled and deliberate shots. It’s a gun that rewards patience and precision.
The accuracy with this vintage handgun is impressive, especially for the era in which it was designed. It is a reminder that good mechanics can deliver consistent results. Target shooting with this revolver is enjoyable, and hitting steel targets at moderate distances is a testament to its effectiveness.
Collecting the Legacy: Preservation and Value
The Colt Army Special in 32-20 holds substantial appeal for collectors. Its rarity, condition, and historical significance all contribute to its value. Original examples in excellent condition, especially those with original boxes and documentation, command premium prices.
Assessing a Colt Army Special begins with an examination of its overall condition. Look for signs of wear, such as scratches, rust, and pitting. The finish, barrel condition, and the functionality of the action are all critical factors. Originality is key; collectors often seek firearms that have been preserved in their original configuration, without modifications or aftermarket parts. The presence of factory-original components elevates its value.
The current market value varies significantly. Condition, rarity of specific variations, and market demand all influence the price. Collectors should seek information from reputable auction houses, online resources, and firearms appraisers to gain a better understanding of current market trends. This helps in navigating the intricacies of the collector’s market.
The enduring legacy: A conversation about heritage
The Colt Army Special in 32-20 embodies an era of American history. Its combination of practical functionality, historical value, and collectibility creates a compelling narrative. Whether you are a seasoned collector, a firearms history enthusiast, or simply curious about classic firearms, the Colt Army Special and its relationship with the 32-20 offers plenty to explore. This revolver stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of American ingenuity and gunsmithing. The stories and experiences associated with this particular revolver contribute to the deep connection people feel towards it, further cementing its place within the world of firearms.
The allure of owning a Colt Army Special in the 32-20 goes beyond the functionality; it’s a tangible link to the past. Holding the revolver, feeling its balance, and experiencing its smooth action create a genuine connection to a bygone era. It is more than just a tool. For enthusiasts and collectors, it’s a piece of history and a reminder of the evolution of firearms technology. The Colt Army Special remains a symbol of the American spirit and a classic example of firearms design. The 32-20 chambering only adds to its uniqueness and allure.
