Just got “The Call” 8031

[WoodyWagon]

Yahooooooooo! I just got the call, and I am getting a Service Grade! I honestly thought I would have to wait until the next batch! Gave the nice lady my credit card number, now I will fidget like a five year old waiting for the FFL to call me.

[WoodyWagon]

Phone call from CMP on Tuesday morning. Wednesday morning, email saying it was shipped FEDEX Priority. Thursday around supper time, I called FFL, "Yup,it's here. I was just getting ready to call you!" An hour later, I had it in my hands. This is a whole new learning curve for me, but I am thinking this firearm could have seen overseas service in both World Wars. I am very pleased! A truly historic piece. I have performed a detailed strip and clean, and now I will go to the range.
So, exactly what do I have?

[AS11/BM3]

It would help if we had the serial #... it looks like 158071 ??

[DDRode]

Originally Posted by WoodyWagon

I am thinking this firearm could have seen service in both World Wars.

So, exactly what do I have?

COLT receiver 158071 was produced in 1917.

The slide is a MAY 1918 variant used between 275000 & 290000, & it's got the new style recoil spring housing which started being used at about 290000.

Even tho it went thru AUGUSTA ARSENAL, it's possible that the receiver & slide might be an original assembly (although the KEYES FIBRE stocks, HIGH STANDARD barrel, slide stop, & thumb safety are replacements)...based on the wear patterns!!!

Dug the info outta CLAWSON (3rd Edition)!!!