The Colt D.A. 38: A Brief Overview
A Look Back to the Past
The echoes of history resonate in the chambers of a Colt D.A. 38 revolver. This iconic firearm, a stalwart companion to law enforcement and a symbol of the Wild West, remains a captivating object of interest for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts around the world. More than a mere relic of the past, the Colt D.A. 38 represents a pivotal era of American ingenuity and development. The intricate design, the smooth mechanics, and the enduring legacy of this classic weapon continue to fascinate those who appreciate its history and craftsmanship. At the heart of understanding these firearms lies the key—the serial number. This seemingly simple sequence of digits unlocks a wealth of information, helping to reveal the precise history of a particular revolver, and assisting in a more comprehensive understanding of the entire model. In this guide, we delve into the world of *Colt D.A. 38 serial numbers*, providing the tools and knowledge necessary to appreciate the intricacies of these iconic weapons and the fascinating story they tell.
A look back to the past is necessary to fully appreciate the weapon itself. The Colt D.A. 38, often recognized by its more complete title as the Colt Double Action .38, materialized during a time of significant evolution in firearms technology. The late eighteen-hundreds saw the birth of the cartridge revolver, a significant advancement over previous models. The design of the D.A. 38, engineered by the renowned Colt’s Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company, was developed to be a reliable and efficient sidearm. Its primary purpose was to provide a more accessible weapon for law enforcement, and to be a reliable sidearm for those on the frontier. This revolver embraced a double-action mechanism, allowing the user to either cock the hammer for single-action shooting or, through a longer trigger pull, cock and release the hammer in one continuous motion. This feature provided an edge in scenarios where rapid deployment was vital.
The Colt D.A. 38’s design, including its distinctive profile, cylinder capacity, and generally elegant construction, solidified its place in firearm history. Manufactured for several years, from roughly the late eighteen seventies into the early twentieth century, it saw widespread service with law enforcement agencies, as well as military and civilian use. Its prevalence in the hands of peacekeepers, and citizens seeking self-defense, speaks to the practical effectiveness and appeal. The design had several iterations over its lifetime, each representing refined manufacturing processes and technological innovations. Some models featured different barrel lengths, grips, and finishes, reflecting the varied needs and tastes of their intended owners. This diversity of design further enhances the appeal of this model, and adds complexity to their study and investigation.
Understanding Serial Number Locations
Finding the Numbers
Understanding where to look for the all-important serial number is an essential first step in uncovering the revolver’s history. Serial numbers, those unique identifiers that distinguish one firearm from another, are typically found in a few standard locations. The most common location is on the frame of the revolver, usually concealed beneath the left-hand grip panel. To locate the number, the grip must be carefully removed. It is important to take the proper steps to avoid damaging the gun, or its components. When the grip is removed, the serial number will typically be stamped into the frame. The exact placement can vary slightly depending on the specific production run and any variations in the manufacturing process.
Another area where a serial number might be found is the cylinder. In some cases, a partial or complete serial number may be engraved on the cylinder, again helping to provide a link to the gun’s original records. There are other less common places where a serial number may appear, like the butt of the grip frame. When looking, the entire firearm should be closely examined.
Decoding the Serial Number: The Key to Production Dates
The Basics of Dating
The serial number is the key to dating the manufacture of a *Colt D.A. 38* revolver. Colt, during its manufacturing runs, meticulously maintained records that allowed for the correlation of serial numbers with their respective production years. These records, now accessible through various resources, allow a collector to determine a revolver’s approximate date of manufacture. These are not absolute timelines, but the serial numbers provide the most reliable method for determining the revolver’s approximate age. The first step to dating a *Colt D.A. 38* is to consult an established serial number database. Several online resources and published books offer serial number lookup services, often providing ranges of serial numbers corresponding to specific years of production. The more accurate the resource, the better the dating ability.
For example, a *Colt D.A. 38* with a serial number within a given range might have been manufactured in or around eighteen seventy-eight. While a serial number in a higher range might be from a few years later. The closer the serial number is to the beginning or the end of a defined range, the more accurate the date of manufacture will be. This dating system is approximate, and it’s important to account for possible variations, production delays, and other historical realities. This is why serial number lookups provide only an approximate production date, but with careful research, the estimated date can be narrowed down.
It is very important to recognize that the data used to generate these serial number to date pairings are often based on general production records. The precise amount of the production for a given model is not exact. This is why the ranges that are commonly referenced are often several hundred or several thousand numbers in width. The serial number database is only one tool, so a collector should consult multiple references if available.
Additional Information from Serial Numbers
Beyond the Date
Beyond just a date of manufacture, serial numbers may also provide clues about a *Colt D.A. 38’s* origin. Specific serial number ranges, for example, can indicate whether a firearm was intended for military or commercial sales. In some instances, a serial number may suggest that a revolver was made for a specific contract or organization. Other markings, sometimes found on the frame or barrel, can indicate additional details such as acceptance stamps from military inspectors, or markings from private or government organizations. These markings can often provide valuable insight into the revolver’s history. If present, the serial number will help in the identification of these special markings.
It’s important to remember that Colt often produced variations of the D.A. 38 to meet specific needs. These variations could include different barrel lengths, finishes, and grip materials. The serial number, when cross-referenced with production records, can help identify these variations. A rarer finish or modification, for example, could significantly increase the value to a collector. These additional features, when coupled with the serial number, add to the overall value and appeal to collectors.
The presence of inspection marks or proof marks, often found on different parts of the revolver, such as the barrel or the cylinder, can provide insight into the revolver’s history. These markings demonstrate the testing process and the quality control practices employed by Colt. These marks also provide a link to the time and period in which the weapon was assembled, and may indicate the branch of service it was associated with. All of this is determined, to some degree, through the serial number.
Importance for Collectors and Enthusiasts
What it Means to Collectors
Understanding the serial number is of paramount importance to anyone seeking to determine the authenticity of a *Colt D.A. 38*. Counterfeiting of antique firearms has been a reality for a long time, so properly determining the provenance of a weapon is essential. A properly researched and verified serial number, along with its associated markings, can provide key evidence of whether the gun is genuine or a reproduction. This includes not only the serial number itself, but the style of the font that was used. Collectors rely on serial numbers to ensure the authenticity of any antique or vintage firearm, and the *Colt D.A. 38* is no exception.
The estimated value of a *Colt D.A. 38* revolver is influenced by many factors, including its rarity, its condition, and its historical significance. The serial number provides the essential information to determine the revolver’s approximate age and helps to provide the context in which the weapon was manufactured and deployed. The serial number also helps in researching a *Colt D.A. 38’s* previous ownership, which may reveal important factors that affect value. A revolver that has a documented history, particularly one associated with a specific historical event or person, might be worth significantly more than a similar revolver without such a pedigree. The serial number helps to piece together a complete picture of the revolver’s history.
The condition of the revolver, ranging from near mint to well-worn, is another factor that impacts its value. A revolver that has been well-preserved, and maintains its original finish, will be highly valued by collectors. Likewise, the serial number, along with a careful examination of the weapon’s components, can also provide insight into its condition.
Preserving History
The Serial Number’s Role
The serial number serves as a powerful tool in the preservation of history. Each *Colt D.A. 38*, with its unique serial number, tells a story of the era in which it was made and the people who used it. By studying serial numbers, historians and collectors can piece together the puzzle of how these firearms were made, distributed, and used. This process supports the historical record, while also serving as a tangible link to the past. Researching serial numbers, and their associated records, provides more comprehensive insight into an era long since passed.
Resources for Further Research
Where to Learn More
For those looking to continue their study of the Colt D.A. 38 and its serial numbers, there are many helpful resources available. Reputable books on Colt firearms often provide detailed serial number charts, production histories, and information. Online forums and collector groups provide invaluable opportunities to share knowledge, ask questions, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Reputable auction sites also allow for the examination of completed sales and the study of firearms, and their related data.
To successfully research the serial number of a *Colt D.A. 38*, start by consulting readily available serial number lookup resources. The more references you consult, the greater the accuracy. Careful observation, and the comparison of the serial number with available records, is critical to gaining a comprehensive understanding of the gun’s manufacture and history.
Conclusion
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the serial number of a *Colt D.A. 38* is far more than just a sequence of digits. It is a gateway to understanding the history, the craftsmanship, and the legacy of one of the most iconic firearms in American history. By mastering the information contained in these serial numbers, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts can gain a deeper appreciation of the Colt D.A. 38. By understanding the past, we can then more fully appreciate the objects themselves, and the stories that they contain. The adventure of discovery awaits.
