Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this “snubby” framed double-action revolver for a penny-start auction; this is the Colt Detective Special “Fourth Issue."
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Detective Special “Fourth Issue”
Serial: P06124
Date of Manufacture: 1981
Caliber: .38 Special
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 2"
Optics/Sights: Fixed Ramp Blade Front with Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Checkered Synthetic Pachmayr Presentation Grips with Inlaid Colt Medallions
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Detective Special is widely regarded as the benchmark compact defensive revolver of the 20th century and one of the most influential handguns ever adopted by law enforcement. Introduced in 1927, it was derived from the immensely successful Colt Police Positive Special, a small-frame revolver whose basic action remained largely unchanged from 1907 through 1995. By shortening the barrel to 2 inches and giving the revolver its own name, Colt effectively created the modern “snub-nose” revolver category. For the next five decades, the Detective Special became the preferred sidearm of police detectives, undercover officers, and off-duty lawmen, so closely associated with police work that it was commonly known as “a cop gun.” Compact yet powerful, chambered in .38 Special and holding a full six rounds, it earned a reputation for superior accuracy, strength, and fit and finish, establishing itself as the gold standard for concealed-carry revolvers well into the 1960s.
Model: Detective Special “Fourth Issue”
Serial: P06124
Date of Manufacture: 1981
Caliber: .38 Special
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 2"
Optics/Sights: Fixed Ramp Blade Front with Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Checkered Synthetic Pachmayr Presentation Grips with Inlaid Colt Medallions
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Detective Special is widely regarded as the benchmark compact defensive revolver of the 20th century and one of the most influential handguns ever adopted by law enforcement. Introduced in 1927, it was derived from the immensely successful Colt Police Positive Special, a small-frame revolver whose basic action remained largely unchanged from 1907 through 1995. By shortening the barrel to 2 inches and giving the revolver its own name, Colt effectively created the modern “snub-nose” revolver category. For the next five decades, the Detective Special became the preferred sidearm of police detectives, undercover officers, and off-duty lawmen, so closely associated with police work that it was commonly known as “a cop gun.” Compact yet powerful, chambered in .38 Special and holding a full six rounds, it earned a reputation for superior accuracy, strength, and fit and finish, establishing itself as the gold standard for concealed-carry revolvers well into the 1960s.
Collectors divide the Detective Special’s long production life into several “Issues,” reflecting significant design changes over time. The First Issue (1927–1946) began as essentially a Police Positive Special with a 2-inch barrel and square butt grip frame; in 1933, Colt rounded the butt to improve concealability, creating the classic profile most closely associated with the model. Postwar refinements ushered in the Second Issue (1947–1965), which featured mechanical updates, a redesigned cylinder retention system, improved ramped front sights, a longer ejector rod, and various changes to the hammer, trigger, and grips, coinciding with Colt’s formal designation of the “D” frame. The Third Issue, introduced in 1966, adopted a shorter grip frame shared with the Colt Agent to streamline production, with grips extending past the frame to preserve handling.
In 1973, Colt introduced the Fourth Issue, representing the most substantial redesign in the model’s history. This version featured a new heavy barrel with a full ejector rod shroud and an extended ramped front sight, giving the revolver a more modern and durable appearance while improving balance and practical shooting characteristics. The earlier narrow stocks were replaced with larger combat-style grips that wrapped around the front and bottom of the frame, and the trigger changed from the traditional grooved pattern to a smooth face for improved double-action operation. Most significantly, the Fourth Issue became the first Detective Special officially rated for limited use with .38 Special +P ammunition, with Colt recommending factory inspection after approximately 3,000 rounds of +P use and possible frame replacement if necessary. Produced from 1973 until 1986, the Fourth Issue marked the final major evolution of the Detective Special before the model’s first official discontinuation, concluding the original production run of one of the most respected and collectible double-action revolvers ever manufactured.
Contents:
Contents:
This example will ship with the factory-labeled Colt box and all other contents 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
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
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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. 
Additional Information
GunbrokerLink: |
https://www.gunbroker.com/item/1177340458 |
BidPrice: |
0.01 |
AuctionEndDate: |
2026-05-31 21:00:00 |
CurrentBid: |
0.01 |
