New to me. Colt Official Police from 1936.

[Jcordell]

So a couple nights ago I learn that I have a little over $600.00 in my Toy Account (i.e, saving account). Hooray says I. Yesterday after several hours of working out in the yard I decide to treat myself and take a quick drive over to my favorite LGS ( Boulevard Gun & Pawn ) and see what they have in stock. He's always good for classic revolvers. I've gotten some great six shooters from him in the past such as a Pre-war S&W Heavy Duty and a pre-war OM Target.

My wife asks if I'm going to be buying anything. I respond with total sincerity "Oh no honey. The only thing I'm wanting right now for my collection is a Colt Official Police with a 4" barrel. I have yet to find one of those for sale here in the area. I'm just killing time." I really meant it by the way. I had begun to consider buying an OP from the Internet while I still can.

Well obviously you can guess the rest. I walk in and what should I see in the display case but an Official Police with a 4" barrel. The stars had aligned themselves. The owner's wife gets it out for me and I check it out. There is holster wear, but no pitting or rust. I found myself wondering if it had been either a cop or security guard's revolver at one time. The bore is nice and clean. Timing is on - very nice lock-up. Serial number is 601XXX giving it a date of birth sometime in 1936. Above the serial number is a T - which I understand means Targeted. Which Colt would do to all revolvers ordered by police and other governmental agencies. So it really was a Cop Gun at one time.The story might not be accurate, but it's a neat story. Carried often and not shot all that much. My suspicion about the holster wear makes sense.

The sticker price was $450.00. I haggled with the owner for a few minutes and he came down to $400.00 + tax. Bringing the final price to $425.00. Not bad. I can live with it. Yes I probably would have paid $350.00 three months ago, but can't be helped. I whip out the credit card and go home with my Official Police. Finally I now have one in my little collection of Colt handguns. But it's one that I've been wanting for many years now. Even more than the Python if you can believe that.

I like to collect examples of police revolvers and if I'm going to do that then I need both Colts and Smith & Wessons.