Synopsis:

A near excellent, all original, US Switch & Signal 1911A1 pistol made in 1943 with a High Standard barrel and a correct blued magazine. A key pistol for the collector of United States WWII military firearms whose 1911A1 production was the second smallest after the Singer!

Description:

Union Switch & Signal Model 1911A1 pistol manufactured in 1943, in .45 caliber, with serial number 1084466, with 5" barrel, fixed front sight and drift adjustable rear sight. The left side of the slide marked with the USS logo along side "U.S. & S. CO." and "SWISSVALE, PA. U.S.A." The right side of the frame marked "UNITED STATES PROPERTY", "M 1911 A1 U.S. ARMY", and full serial number. The frame inspected with a circular "R.C.D" marking (Robert C. Downie ordnance inspector) that cuts through the finish. Small P proofs on top of the slide and on left frame next to magazine release, the latter cutting through the finish. Fitted with brown checkered grips secured with slotted screws. Blued magazine with 5 cartridge indicator holes and an "S" marked toe. Disassembly shows an HS barrel marked on the right side of the lug. Union Switch & Signal Company of Swissvale, Pennsylvania, primarily manufactured railroad signaling equipment but received a contract on May 5, 1942 for M1911A1 pistol production, with first pistols accepted by ordnance inspectors in January 1943, the firm making a total of approximately 55,000.

Condition:

VG/Exc original parkerized finish with sharp edge wear and thinning as one might expect from a carried service pistol, particularly on the front strap. Encircled inspector initials, and small P proofs, cutting though the finish. Several numerals in the serial number also cutting through the finish. Mirror bright bore with strong rifling. Comparable condition magazine with insertional wear and very faint freckling. A very nice all original US Switch & Signal 1911A1 pistol made in late 1943, well suited for the serious/advanced collector of United States military firearms.