Intro
Revisit the iconic Colt 38 Detective Special, a classic revolver that defined the snub-nosed genre. Learn about its history, design, and features that made it a staple for law enforcement and civilians alike. Discover the evolution of this compact handgun and its enduring popularity among collectors and shooters today.
The Colt Detective Special is a revolver that has been a staple of law enforcement and civilian firearms for decades. Introduced in 1927, this compact, six-shot revolver was designed to be a more manageable alternative to the larger Colt Official Police model. Over the years, the Colt Detective Special has undergone several changes, with the Colt 38 Detective Special being one of the most popular variants.

Throughout its production run, the Colt 38 Detective Special has remained a popular choice among law enforcement and civilians alike. Its compact size, reliability, and stopping power make it an excellent choice for concealed carry and self-defense. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history, design, and features of the Colt 38 Detective Special, as well as its performance and significance in the world of firearms.
History of the Colt 38 Detective Special
The Colt Detective Special was first introduced in 1927, as a response to the growing demand for a more compact and manageable revolver. The original model was chambered in.32 Colt New Police, but it was later offered in.38 Special, which became the most popular caliber. The Colt 38 Detective Special was designed to be a more concealable alternative to the larger Colt Official Police model, with a shorter barrel and a more streamlined frame.

During World War II, the Colt 38 Detective Special saw widespread use among military and law enforcement personnel. Its compact size and reliability made it an excellent choice for concealed carry, and it quickly became a favorite among detectives and police officers. The Colt 38 Detective Special remained in production until 1995, with over 700,000 units produced during its production run.
Design and Features
The Colt 38 Detective Special is a double-action revolver, with a swing-out cylinder and a six-shot capacity. The frame is made from steel, with a blued finish, and the grips are typically made from wood or checkered rubber. The revolver features a 2-inch barrel, with a fixed front sight and an adjustable rear sight.

One of the most distinctive features of the Colt 38 Detective Special is its compact size. The revolver measures just 6.5 inches in length, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry. The weight is also relatively light, at just 21 ounces unloaded. The Colt 38 Detective Special is also known for its smooth trigger pull and its reliability, making it a popular choice among law enforcement and civilians alike.
Performance
The Colt 38 Detective Special is chambered in.38 Special, a caliber that is known for its stopping power and reliability. The revolver is capable of firing a variety of ammunition, from standard.38 Special loads to more powerful +P loads. The Colt 38 Detective Special is also known for its accuracy, with a fixed front sight and an adjustable rear sight making it easy to aim and fire.

In terms of performance, the Colt 38 Detective Special is more than capable of handling the demands of self-defense. The revolver is reliable, accurate, and packs a significant punch, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a compact and reliable handgun.
Significance
The Colt 38 Detective Special is a significant firearm, both in terms of its design and its impact on the world of firearms. The revolver's compact size and reliability made it an excellent choice for concealed carry, and it quickly became a favorite among detectives and police officers. The Colt 38 Detective Special also played a significant role in the development of modern firearms, with its design influencing the creation of later revolvers and semi-automatic pistols.

Today, the Colt 38 Detective Special remains a popular collector's item, with many firearms enthusiasts seeking out original models and variants. The revolver's compact size, reliability, and stopping power also make it a popular choice for concealed carry and self-defense, ensuring its place in the world of firearms for years to come.
Gallery of Colt 38 Detective Special
Colt 38 Detective Special Image Gallery










What is the Colt 38 Detective Special?
+The Colt 38 Detective Special is a compact, six-shot revolver chambered in.38 Special.
When was the Colt 38 Detective Special introduced?
+The Colt 38 Detective Special was introduced in 1927.
What is the significance of the Colt 38 Detective Special?
+The Colt 38 Detective Special is significant due to its compact size, reliability, and stopping power, making it a popular choice for concealed carry and self-defense.
As we've explored in this article, the Colt 38 Detective Special is a classic revolver that has played a significant role in the world of firearms. Its compact size, reliability, and stopping power make it an excellent choice for concealed carry and self-defense, and its significance extends beyond its practical uses to its influence on the development of modern firearms. Whether you're a firearms enthusiast, a collector, or simply looking for a reliable handgun, the Colt 38 Detective Special is definitely worth considering.