Unveiling the Detective Special Colt 38: A Legendary Handgun
The Detective Special Colt 38 is a compact and reliable handgun that has been a favorite among law enforcement and civilians alike for decades. With its rich history, impressive design, and notable users, this firearm has become an iconic part of American firearms culture. Here are six fascinating facts about the Detective Special Colt 38:
A Brief History of the Detective Special
The Detective Special was first introduced by Colt’s Manufacturing Company in 1927, as a response to the growing demand for compact and concealable handguns. The pistol was designed to be a smaller, more manageable version of the Colt Official Police revolver, which was a popular choice among law enforcement at the time. The Detective Special quickly gained popularity due to its reliability, accuracy, and compact size, making it an ideal choice for plainclothes police officers and civilians alike.
Design and Features
The Detective Special is a double-action revolver chambered in.38 Special, with a 2-inch or 3-inch barrel. It features a sleek and compact design, with a rounded butt and a smooth trigger. The pistol has a six-shot cylinder and weighs approximately 21 ounces unloaded. One of the most distinctive features of the Detective Special is its unique grip design, which allows for a comfortable and secure hold.
🔍 Note: The Detective Special was designed to be a "snub-nose" revolver, with a short barrel and a compact frame, making it ideal for concealed carry.
Notable Users
The Detective Special has been used by numerous law enforcement agencies and notable individuals throughout its history. Some of the most notable users include:
• The New York City Police Department (NYPD), which adopted the Detective Special as a standard-issue sidearm in the 1920s. • The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which used the Detective Special as a training pistol and for undercover operations. • Detective Eliot Ness, who led the Prohibition-era task force known as “The Untouchables” and carried a Detective Special as his primary sidearm. • Author and firearms expert Elmer Keith, who was a strong advocate for the Detective Special and wrote extensively about its virtues.
Pop Culture Appearances
The Detective Special has appeared in numerous films, television shows, and books throughout the years. Some notable appearances include:
• The 1960s television series “The Untouchables,” which featured Robert Stack as Eliot Ness and prominently featured the Detective Special. • The 1970s television series “Kojak,” which starred Telly Savalas as the titular character and often featured the Detective Special. • The film “The French Connection,” which featured Gene Hackman as Detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle, who carried a Detective Special as his primary sidearm.
Modern Production and Collectibility
Although the original Detective Special was discontinued in 1986, Colt’s Manufacturing Company has since released several re-issued and commemorative models. These modern iterations have become highly sought after by collectors and firearms enthusiasts. The Detective Special has also become a popular choice among gunsmiths and customizers, who often modify and restore original models to their former glory.
| Model | Production Dates | Serial Number Range |
|---|---|---|
| Original Detective Special | 1927-1986 | 1-73131 |
| Re-Issued Detective Special | 1993-1995 | DS00001-DS37300 |
| Commemorative Detective Special | 2002-2003 | DS2002-DS2003 |
Legacy and Impact
The Detective Special Colt 38 has left an indelible mark on the world of firearms and law enforcement. Its compact design, reliability, and accuracy made it an ideal choice for plainclothes police officers and civilians alike. The Detective Special has also become an iconic symbol of American firearms culture, with numerous appearances in popular media and a dedicated following among collectors and enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Detective Special Colt 38 is a legendary handgun that has captured the hearts of firearms enthusiasts and law enforcement professionals alike. With its rich history, impressive design, and notable users, this pistol has become an integral part of American firearms culture.
What is the difference between the Detective Special and the Colt Official Police?
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The main difference between the Detective Special and the Colt Official Police is the barrel length and overall size. The Detective Special has a shorter barrel (2-inch or 3-inch) and a more compact frame, making it ideal for concealed carry. The Colt Official Police has a longer barrel (4-inch or 5-inch) and a larger frame, making it more suitable for duty use.
Is the Detective Special still in production?
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No, the original Detective Special was discontinued in 1986. However, Colt’s Manufacturing Company has released several re-issued and commemorative models over the years.
What is the value of a vintage Detective Special?
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The value of a vintage Detective Special can vary depending on the condition, serial number, and rarity. Generally, prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the specific model and condition.
