Help with WW1 Colt 1911

[runningbear]

I have turned down offers of $800 for mine,i would post pictures but can't deal with this forums small limits.
It's the only forum that i go to that has such small size picture limits.

 

[futurerider103]

The ww1 slides are SOFTER than the ww2 and newer models but not delicate. Just think how many rounds had already gone through it. I shoot mine at least 1 box of ball a month.
A collector at the gun show has valued mine at $2800 on the low side but don't expect the from that one you are showing. I'd say $600-$800 would be a decent price but like others have said don't expect collector value from it.

Pictures as promised

 

[lamarw]

Here is a picture of mine. It was manufactured on Oct. 11,1918 and shipped to Bush Terminal Brooklyn, NY on Oct. 15, 1918. The serial number is 483354.

I have gone through it pretty thoroughly and all the parts seem to be original to include the barrel with the combined "H" and "P" marking. Although, who can tell if they are all from the same pistol as it left the Colt assembly line in 1918. One indication is the coloration of the major parts. Many of these were considered "Black Army" guns due to their black color in the blueing process which was caused by a change for cost consideration and faster production.

A good reference publication is "Collector's Guide to Colt .45 Service Pistols Models of 1911 and 1911A1" by Charles W. Clawson.

 

[futurerider103]

Mine was made in August of 1918

 

[lamarw]

futurerider103, Our pistols most likely did not see action in WWI. There is a chance they may of seen action during the Banana War or the early part of WWII.

It just depends upon when they were liberated by some serviceman.

 

[Aguila Blanca]

Thank you for all the responses, and great input. I was planning to shoot this thing.....are you guys saying that's not advisable?

Definitely not advisable. See this link: http://forum.m1911.org/showthread.php?60680-Should-I-shoot-my-original-USGI-M1911

FWIW, Scott Gahimer is one of THE most knowledgeable 1911 collectors in the country at this point. He knew Charles Clawson personally, and currently owns several of Clawson's own 1911s. If Scott says something, you can pretty well take it to the bank.

 

[DPris]

The pistols were not heat treated in 1918, at all.
You risk cracks & accelerated wear at key points on the slide if you shoot an older one like that regularly.

My 1918 will never be fired as long as I own it.
I have modern 1911s to shoot.
Denis

 

[futurerider103]

It's like a classic car. Why have it if it's going to sit in the garage with a cover on it? I shoot everything I own and wouldn't have it any other way

 

[futurerider103]

Besides I have 2 granted the first one pictured is way better condition.