Converting a S&W 1917

[Hammer1]

Have a Smith & Wesson 1917 45 ACP.

Before I got it, someone converted it to a two-inch barrel snubby.

What is the feasibility of converting it to 45 Colt (45 Long Colt) ?

 

[Jim Watson]

Not very good.
The .45 ACP + clip or .45 Auto Rim has a rear gauge (headspace) of about .090". The .45 Colt's is near the rimmed cartridge standard of .060". So a rechamber would leave you with excess headspace. Maybe the round would headspace in the chamber throat; maybe the firing pin would reach. Maybe.

Also the ACP cylinder is short, with a lot of barrel back through the frame. You would be limited in what Colt loadings you shot. S&W made some commemorative .45 Colts with the same cylinder length as ACP but correct headspace. They would accept factory loads but nothing any longer.

 

[Sarge]

Did they leave the ejector latch under the barrel? I'm betting your cylinder is too short for .45 Colt loads using 255+ grain bullets.