Early 1917 slide marking.

[Scott Wilson]

Today I examined an early 1917 vintage 1911 (Sn# 150477,) The pistol has it's original finish and is parts correct. My question is this: is it possible for an early 1917 1911 to have a slide with the "high" MODEL 1911 US ARMY rollmark that is normally seen on 1916 vintage pistols?

[keith smart]

Hey Scott. The photo didn't come through (I still have a flip phone). Hopefully, you will still make the South Carolina Arms Collector's Association show this weekend. I'd like to see it. Hope you posted on one of the forums that has activity. I don't know why even look here anymore

[Duane Hansen]

Today I examined an early 1917 vintage 1911 (Sn# 150477,) The pistol has it's original finish and is parts correct. My question is this: is it possible for an early 1917 1911 to have a slide with the "high" MODEL 1911 US ARMY rollmark that is normally seen on 1916 vintage pistols?

I believe that it is very possible that your pistol is correct. Colt never wasted any parts and if the 1916 slide was in the parts bin at the time of the assembly then that's the part that got used. Does the finish on the slide and frame match? Have you examined wear marks to see if the parts have been together for any length of time? (Not always easy to do) Pictures?

[Scott Wilson]

Duane, the answer is yes to all of your questions. Also, the barrel wear markings match those on the breach face.

[stan4]

Scott,

Does the pistol have any other 1916 characteristics? Could it be a replacement pistol?

Best Regards,