Synopsis:

Gorgeous Colt Commander Lightweight in .38 Super, manufactured in 1950, with proprietary aluminum alloy frame, 4¼-inch barrel, well recognized as the first mass-produced pistol with aluminum construction, this example in EXC+/near-new condition with an original box and instructions.

Description:

Standard configuration Colt Commander Super in .38 Super caliber manufactured in 1950, the first year of full production, SN: 8371-LW. This example has a two-tone finish with plum toned slide and black alloy frame, a fixed front sight and drift adjustable rear sight. The left side of slide is marked "COMMANDER MODEL COLT SUPER .38 AUTOMATIC" with rampant Colt logo, while the right side bears "COLT'S MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." SN:"8371-LW" is on the right side of frame. Fitted with checkered Coltwood grips, each panel with an encircled rampant Colt. Matte blued magazine with floorplate marked "COLT SUPER .38 AUTO." Complete with original brown cardboard factory box with original instruction leaflet, end label of box marked "COLT COMMANDER" and "CALIBER .38 SUPER."

The Commander was Colt's candidate in a U.S. government post-World War II trial to find a lighter replacement for the M1911 pistol that would be issued to officers, with requirements issued in 1949 that the pistol could not exceed 7 inches in length or weigh more than 25 ounces. Built with an alloy frame and steel slide, the Commander Model was Colt's first successful attempt at mass producing a lightweight, heavy caliber automatic pistol, being less bulky and approximately 35% lighter than the Government Model.

Condition:

Fabulous, 99+% original finish pistol with just the most minute, barely discernible, box/handling marks. Comparable condition grips. EXC mag with insertional wear. Mirror bore. Perfect manual mechanics. VG-EXC original shipping box and literature.