You’ll find the Colt Police Positive, introduced in 1907, to be a reliable double-action revolver that served law enforcement for nearly nine decades. It features a carbon steel frame with blued or nickel-plated finish, barrel lengths from 2.5 to 6 inches, and chamberings in .32 or .38 caliber. The revolver’s Positive Lock internal hammer block prevents accidental discharge, while its smooth trigger action and 6-round capacity proved ideal for defensive use. Its enduring legacy extends far beyond these basic specifications.
Key Takeaways
- The Police Positive was Colt’s evolution of their New Police revolver, featuring improved safety mechanisms and more caliber options.
- Available in multiple barrel lengths (2.5-6 inches) with blued or nickel-plated finishes and checkered walnut grips.
- Features a 6-round cylinder capacity and accommodates various calibers including .32-20 Win, .32 Colt NP, and .38 Special.
- Incorporates a Positive Lock internal hammer block safety system to prevent accidental discharge.
- Served reliably for nearly 90 years with production spanning from 1907 to 1976, making it a significant police service weapon.
Description
The Colt Police Positive, introduced as an evolution of the New Police revolver, distinguished itself through its innovative Positive Lock safety mechanism – an internal hammer block that prevented accidental discharge.
The revolver’s frame is available in blued or nickel-plated carbon steel, with barrel lengths ranging from 2.5 to 6 inches. The cylinder accommodates .32 and .38 Colt cartridges, while checkered walnut grips ensure reliable control.
Price Range
Prices of Colt Police Positive revolvers fluctuate significantly based on their production era and condition, with first-issue models (1907-1927) commanding $500-$1,200 at auction. Later variants typically fetch lower prices, while barrel length and caliber options can affect value.
| Production Era | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 1907-1927 | $500-$1,200 |
| 1928-1946 | $400-$800 |
| 1947-1976 | $300-$600 |
| Post-1976 | $200-$500 |
Specifications
The Colt Police Positive’s solid steel frame, available in blued or nickel finishes, delivers reliable performance while keeping the weight manageable for daily carry. You’ll find this six-shot revolver offers versatility through its multiple barrel length options and cartridge choices. The revolver’s specifications showcase Colt’s commitment to law enforcement needs during the early 20th century.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Weight | 23-25 oz (unloaded) |
| Barrel Length | 4″, 5″, or 6″ options |
| Chambering | .32-20 Win, .32 Colt NP, .38 Colt NP, .38 Special |
Weight
Several weight variations existed across the Police Positive line, with the standard 4-inch barrel model weighing 23 ounces and its Target variant coming in slightly lighter at 22 ounces despite its longer 6-inch barrel.
The Bankers Special, with its shortened 2-inch barrel, offered a lighter carry option, while the Colt Police Positive Special’s lengthened frame added minimal weight. The Fitz Special modification further reduced the revolver’s mass for enhanced concealability.
Barrel Length
Originally manufactured with multiple barrel configurations, Colt’s Police Positive offered lengths ranging from 2.5 to 6 inches to suit varying operational needs.
The 4-inch barrel was the standard configuration for the Police Positive revolver, while longer 5- and 6-inch variants provided enhanced ballistic performance.
You’ll find the compact 2.5-inch “Bankers Special” was specifically produced between 1926-1940 for concealed carry applications.
Material Made Out Of
Manufactured from premium carbon steel, Colt’s Police Positive revolver featured either a polished blued or nickel-plated finish that provided both durability and corrosion resistance.
Early models came with hard black rubber grips, but after 1923, you’d find checkered walnut grips adorned with silver medallions. The revolver’s construction incorporated Colt’s Positive Lock safety system to prevent unintended discharge during handling.
Chambered In
The Colt Police Positive offered versatile chambering options to meet diverse law enforcement needs, with four primary caliber choices: .32-20 Winchester, .32 Colt New Police, .38 Colt New Police, and .38 Special.
You’ll find proprietary Colt cartridges, like the .32 and .38 Colt New Police, which were distinct from standard .32 S&W and .38 S&W rounds. The power range varied from full-power .38 Special to lighter .32-20 loads.
Capacity
Standard capacity for the Police Positive came in the form of a 6-round cylinder, complemented by a choice of 4-, 5-, or 6-inch barrel lengths.
This six-round cylinder configuration was consistent across all chamberings of the Police Positive revolver, including the .32 and .38 Colt New Police variants.
You’ll find this capacity typical of Colt’s double-action revolvers from this era.
Trigger Pull
Building upon its reliable six-round capacity, Colt’s Police Positive featured precise trigger mechanics that shooters could engage in both single and double-action modes. You’ll find a smooth, crisp single-action pull of 4-5 pounds, while the double-action requires 10-12 pounds of pressure.
The checkered trigger and innovative Positive Lock safety mechanism prevent accidental discharge, ensuring controlled, accurate shooting even under rapid-fire conditions.
Safety?
Safety considerations reached new heights with Colt’s innovative “Positive Lock” mechanism, a groundbreaking internal hammer block that prevented accidental discharge even if dropped or struck.
The Police Positive’s internal hammer block physically prevents the firing pin from contacting the primer unless you’ve fully pulled the trigger, ensuring reliable and safe operation.
Action
The Police Positive’s double-action mechanism represented a masterful blend of engineering precision and practical functionality.
You’ll find the revolver’s clockwise-rotating cylinder provides exceptional accuracy through tighter lock-up and improved barrel alignment. The internal hammer block safety, known as the Positive Lock, prevents accidental discharge, while the grooved trigger offers smooth operation in both double-action and single-action modes.
Optic Ready?
As a product of its era, the Police Positive featured traditional fixed iron sights without any provision for mounting modern optical accessories. You’ll find a simple blade front sight paired with an open V-notch rear sight – the standard aiming system of its time.
The Police Positive’s design predates today’s optics-ready platforms, requiring you to rely solely on the factory iron sights for target acquisition.
Review
You’ll find the Police Positive’s proven track record spans nearly nine decades, with its internal hammer block safety and robust double-action mechanism offering exceptional reliability for law enforcement and civilian users alike.
While the fixed sights on standard models can limit precision shooting compared to adjustable-sight variants, the revolver’s accuracy remains more than adequate for defensive use within typical engagement distances.
The Police Positive’s main drawback is its relatively heavy double-action trigger pull, though this is offset by its smooth operation and the availability of multiple caliber options to suit your specific needs.
Pros
Known for its exceptional reliability and craftsmanship, Colt’s Police Positive revolver established itself as a benchmark for law enforcement sidearms during the early 1900s. You’ll find its Positive Lock prevented accidental discharges, making it one of the safest revolvers of its era.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Internal Hammer Block | Drop-safe operation |
| Hand-Tuned Action | Superior accuracy |
| Multiple Configurations | Versatile use |
| Premium Construction | Long service life |
Cons
Despite its reputation for quality, the Police Positive had several notable drawbacks that impacted its performance in the field. You’ll find the hard double action trigger pull particularly heavy compared to competitors. Without regular maintenance, the revolver tends to bind up, requiring frequent cleaning.
| Issue | Impact |
|---|---|
| Maintenance | Frequent binding |
| Trigger | Heavy pull |
| Safety | Lock failures |
The rubber grips couldn’t fully mitigate the stout recoil, and declining ammunition availability for proprietary cartridges limited long-term usefulness.
Reliability
The Colt Police Positive’s rock-solid reliability stands as its defining characteristic, backed by nearly nine decades of proven service. The revolver’s Positive Lock safety prevents accidental discharge, while precise chamber-to-barrel alignment ensures consistent accuracy.
You’ll find the robust design and reliable operation continue to impress, with vintage models maintaining reliable functionality decades after manufacture. The Police Positive Special’s enduring performance validates its reputation for dependability.
Similar Models
Several notable variants of the Police Positive emerged throughout its production run, each tailored for specific uses and markets.
The Police Positive Special accommodated .38 Special rounds with a longer frame, while the Bankers Special featured a compact 2-inch barrel.
You’ll find the Police Positive Target optimized for accuracy with its 6-inch barrel and adjustable sights, and the Fitz Special offered custom modifications for concealed carry.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
While Colt’s Police Positive dominated much of the law enforcement market, competing manufacturers developed their own comparable revolvers that shaped the industry.
The Smith & Wesson Model 10 emerged as a direct competitor, while the S&W Model 19 offered enhanced power with its .357 Magnum chambering. The Ruger Security-Six provided a cost-effective alternative, and both the Taurus Model 85 and Rossi .38 Special targeted budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable defensive revolvers.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance of the Colt Police Positive revolver demands systematic attention to detail and regular servicing procedures. You’ll need to carefully disassemble the revolver according to archived Colt specifications, ensuring thorough inspection of the firing mechanism and cylinder.
Apply high-quality gun oil to all moving parts, and store your Police Positive in a moisture-free environment to prevent corrosion and protect its finish.
History
The Colt Police Positive emerged in 1907 as a groundbreaking evolution of Colt’s New Police revolver design. The revolver’s Positive Lock safety mechanism and versatile chambering options quickly made it a dominant force in law enforcement.
Throughout its 88-year production run, Colt’s issued several variants featuring updated sights and grips. The Police Positive remained in service until its discontinuation in 1995.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Years Were Colt Police Positive Made?
You’ll find the Colt Police Positive was produced from 1907 to 1995, spanning nearly 90 years across five distinct issues. You’re looking at production runs from 1907-1927 (first), 1928-1946 (second), 1947-1976 (third), 1977-1978 (fourth), and 1994-1995 (final).
Throughout its remarkable run, you’d have seen various accurate barrel lengths, popular caliber choices, and grip materials. Today, you’ll notice these revolvers command significant historical collector’s value.
What Safety Precautions Should I Take With a Colt Police Positive?
You’ll need to always store safely by keeping the revolver unloaded and secured in a locked container. Regularly maintain components through proper cleaning and lubrication.
Ensure proper handling by using trigger discipline and keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Prioritize secure storage away from unauthorized users.
Thoroughly inspect regularly for worn springs, timing issues, or damage. When shooting, only use ammunition specifically designed for your revolver’s chambering.
What Is a Colt Police Positive Bankers Special?
The Colt Police Positive Bankers Special was a compact variant produced from 1926-1940, featuring a shortened 2-inch barrel for enhanced concealability. You’ll find it chambered in either .22 LR or .38 S&W caliber.
The revolver maintained the reliable trigger mechanism design and Positive Lock safety of its full-size counterpart while weighing just 23 ounces. Its historical significance and rarity make it a sought-after collector’s piece, especially valued by enthusiasts of early 20th-century firearms.
What Is the Colt Police Positive Special 3rd Issue?
You’ll find the Police Positive Special 3rd issue was Colt’s post-war evolution (1947-1976) featuring an enhanced trigger mechanism design and improved cylinder ejection process. It’s notable for its .38 Special caliber and historical significance as Colt’s D-frame revolver.
While engraving patterns varied, the model introduced a ramped front sight and grooved trigger. Collectors value these revolvers for their mechanical precision, particularly those with original finishes and early production dates.
Conclusion
You’ll find the Colt Police Positive stands as a testament to American firearm engineering, like a trusty sentinel that’s weathered a century of service. From its introduction in 1907, through decades of law enforcement duty, to today’s collectors’ market, you’re handling a piece of history. Whether you’re considering it for collection or practical use, you’re investing in a revolver that’s proven itself through generations of reliable performance.
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