Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this early production, double-action revolver for a penny-start auction; this is the Colt Detective Special - First Issue!
This Colt Detective Special is an exceptionally desirable example, combining several rare and highly sought-after features that set it far above standard production revolvers. The square-butt configuration—produced only in very limited numbers—is one of the scarcest variations of the Detective Special and is prized by advanced Colt wheelgun collectors. Its factory nickel finish and factory inscription elevate it even further, as both features were special-order options seldom chosen and even more rarely encountered today in such high, well-preserved condition. Adding to its significance, this revolver was shipped to the Dearborn, Michigan Police Department, giving it documented law-enforcement provenance that collectors love. The combination of a square butt, nickel finish, factory inscription, excellent condition, and police-department history makes this Detective Special a standout, investment-grade Colt—an opportunity not to be missed by serious collectors seeking scarce variations and meaningful provenance.
According to the included factory letter from Colt, this example was shipped to the City of Dearborn, Michigan Police Department in Dearborn, Michigan, on October 7, 1929, under Colt Factory order #17292/12. Special features listed were “DBN P.D. #18” engraved on the butt of the revolver.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Detective Special - First Issue
Serial: 390484
Date of Manufacture: 1929
Caliber: .38 Special
Finish: Nickel
Barrel Length: 2"
Optics/Sights: "Half Moon" Blade Front and Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut with Silver Rampant Colt Medallions
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard / The butt is engraved “Dbn. P.D. No. 18.”
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Detective Special is a classic compact double-action revolver introduced by Colt in 1927 as one of the company’s first purpose-built snub-nose service pistols. Built on Colt’s small D-frame, the Detective Special traditionally chambers the .38 Special cartridge in a six-shot cylinder, pairing a short 2" (and occasionally 3") barrel with a slim, concealable profile that made it an instant favorite for plainclothes officers, detectives, and civilians seeking discreet personal protection. It's simple, robust lockwork and straightforward controls—double-action capable with an accurate single-action break—deliver intuitive handling in close-quarters encounters, while the revolver’s balance and ergonomics encourage fast presentation and reliable shot placement. Offered over the decades in blued and nickel finishes, with a variety of grip materials and special-order appointments, the Detective Special blended practicality with Colt’s traditional fit-and-finish.
Model: Detective Special - First Issue
Serial: 390484
Date of Manufacture: 1929
Caliber: .38 Special
Finish: Nickel
Barrel Length: 2"
Optics/Sights: "Half Moon" Blade Front and Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut with Silver Rampant Colt Medallions
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard / The butt is engraved “Dbn. P.D. No. 18.”
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Detective Special is a classic compact double-action revolver introduced by Colt in 1927 as one of the company’s first purpose-built snub-nose service pistols. Built on Colt’s small D-frame, the Detective Special traditionally chambers the .38 Special cartridge in a six-shot cylinder, pairing a short 2" (and occasionally 3") barrel with a slim, concealable profile that made it an instant favorite for plainclothes officers, detectives, and civilians seeking discreet personal protection. It's simple, robust lockwork and straightforward controls—double-action capable with an accurate single-action break—deliver intuitive handling in close-quarters encounters, while the revolver’s balance and ergonomics encourage fast presentation and reliable shot placement. Offered over the decades in blued and nickel finishes, with a variety of grip materials and special-order appointments, the Detective Special blended practicality with Colt’s traditional fit-and-finish.
Beyond service use, the Detective Special established a lasting legacy as a compact revolver that stood at the crossroads of duty and concealability. Its success influenced later small-frame revolver designs and helped popularize the snub-nose format for both law enforcement and civilian markets. Collectors prize early pre-war and finely finished examples, factory variants, and commemoratives, and well-preserved specimens that retain original finish and matching components, while shooters continue to appreciate the model for its straightforward reliability and classic Colt character. In short, the Colt Detective Special remains an enduring icon of American revolver design—valued equally for its historical role and its continued user-friendly performance.
Contents:
Contents:
This example will ship with the factory Colt letter as pictured above!
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
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About Us
From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection.
