Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this incredible semi-automatic pistol today for a penny-start auction, this is the Colt Post-War Service Model Ace!
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Post-War Service Model Ace
Serial: SM28266
Date of Manufacture: 1978-1982
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 4 3/4"
Optics/Sights: Fixed Blade Front with Adjustable Micrometer Click Rear
Stock/Grips: Fully Checkered Walnut Grips with Colt Medallions
Action: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Ace began life in 1931 as a full-size .22 LR semi-automatic pistol modeled closely on the M1911, utilizing the same frame dimensions, grip shape, and general ergonomics. It was intended to provide shooters with a low-recoil, inexpensive trainer that retained the feel of a full-bore service pistol. Early production used a straight blowback action, and these “Pre-War Ace” pistols often suffered from unreliable cycling because the .22 LR cartridge sometimes lacked the power to move the heavy 1911-style slide reliably. Recognizing this limitation, around 1937, Colt, working with designer David Marshall Williams, introduced the “Service Model Ace,” which used Williams’ floating-chamber design. This internal moving chamber used gas pressure from the fired .22 LR round to impart additional rearward force on the slide, improving cycling reliability and giving a felt recoil closer to a .45. As a result, the Service Model Ace became far more practical for training — both for military and civilian shooters — and was reportedly used in some early U.S. military marksmanship programs. Production of the Ace line (original and Service Model) continued through World War II, with pre-war Service Model Ace serial numbers recorded up to approximately SM13803. While total output was modest, the pistol left a lasting legacy.
Model: Post-War Service Model Ace
Serial: SM28266
Date of Manufacture: 1978-1982
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 4 3/4"
Optics/Sights: Fixed Blade Front with Adjustable Micrometer Click Rear
Stock/Grips: Fully Checkered Walnut Grips with Colt Medallions
Action: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Ace began life in 1931 as a full-size .22 LR semi-automatic pistol modeled closely on the M1911, utilizing the same frame dimensions, grip shape, and general ergonomics. It was intended to provide shooters with a low-recoil, inexpensive trainer that retained the feel of a full-bore service pistol. Early production used a straight blowback action, and these “Pre-War Ace” pistols often suffered from unreliable cycling because the .22 LR cartridge sometimes lacked the power to move the heavy 1911-style slide reliably. Recognizing this limitation, around 1937, Colt, working with designer David Marshall Williams, introduced the “Service Model Ace,” which used Williams’ floating-chamber design. This internal moving chamber used gas pressure from the fired .22 LR round to impart additional rearward force on the slide, improving cycling reliability and giving a felt recoil closer to a .45. As a result, the Service Model Ace became far more practical for training — both for military and civilian shooters — and was reportedly used in some early U.S. military marksmanship programs. Production of the Ace line (original and Service Model) continued through World War II, with pre-war Service Model Ace serial numbers recorded up to approximately SM13803. While total output was modest, the pistol left a lasting legacy.
Decades later, in 1978, Colt revived the design as the Post-War Service Model Ace, which remained in production until 1982. These post-war Aces retained the same basic specifications as the pre-war models, were most commonly finished in blue with a rarer electroless-nickel Custom Shop option, and carried “SM” serial number prefixes. Some post-war examples may exhibit additional markings; however, verified documentation for variants such as a “B70” suffix is limited. Today, both the pre-war and post-war Service Model Ace are prized by collectors for their innovative floating-chamber design and their role as authentic 1911-pattern rimfire training pistols.
Condition/Contents:
This example is in Excellent condition, showing no evidence of extensive consumer use or handling that we can see. This example will ship with the Colt box pictured above and one magazine!
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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