Description
Item Description
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Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this breathtaking semi-automatic pistol today for a penny-start auction, this is the Colt Custom Government 38 “El Cen” (02071ELC2)!
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Don't forget to bid on the consecutive serial-numbered sister for this set to stay together for future generations of collectors!!! Simply type item number 1101432945 into the search bar, OR you can click “Seller's other items.”
This particular example is part of a two-piece consecutive serial set! This example sports the serial number (#ELCEN8388), and the matching pair in the other auction bears the serial number (#ELCEN8387)!
YOU CAN FIND THE OTHER CONSECUTIVE SERIAL NUMBER EXAMPLE LIVE ON GUNBROKER NOW BY TYPING #1101432945 IN THE SEARCH BAR!
-According to the owner, this example remains New-Old-Stock Unfired Condition, and we see no evidence that says otherwise-
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Custom Government 38 “El Cen” (02071ELC2)
Serial: ELCEN8388
Caliber: .38 Super
Finish: Bright Stainless Steel
Barrel Length: 5"
Optics/Sights: 3-White Dot Sights
Stock/Grips: Genuine Ivory Grips with Silver Colt Medallions
Action: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Standard / This particular example features exquisite engraving by Gerry Beathard, showcasing his signature snake scale pattern intricately applied across the slide and frame. The design is further accentuated with traditional American scrollwork, blending modern texture with classic elegance. The engraving creates a striking three-dimensional effect, giving the firearm a dynamic, almost lifelike appearance. Notably, the belly scales along the underside of each pistol add depth and detail, demonstrating both artistic precision and a master engraver’s touch.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt 1911 has stood as an enduring icon of American firepower, serving as a trusted sidearm for the United States military through both World Wars and numerous other conflicts. Even today, it remains in use with select military units, a testament to its timeless design and battlefield reliability. Beyond its military pedigree, the 1911 has earned widespread respect among law enforcement, competitive shooters, and firearms enthusiasts alike. Over the decades, the platform has seen thoughtful refinements, such as improved sights, ergonomic grip enhancements, and the addition of a firing-pin block safety. Yet the heart of the pistol, including its legendary trigger and unmistakable profile, has remained virtually unchanged for over a century. This balance of evolution and tradition is part of what makes the Colt 1911 an American classic.
Model: Custom Government 38 “El Cen” (02071ELC2)
Serial: ELCEN8388
Caliber: .38 Super
Finish: Bright Stainless Steel
Barrel Length: 5"
Optics/Sights: 3-White Dot Sights
Stock/Grips: Genuine Ivory Grips with Silver Colt Medallions
Action: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Standard / This particular example features exquisite engraving by Gerry Beathard, showcasing his signature snake scale pattern intricately applied across the slide and frame. The design is further accentuated with traditional American scrollwork, blending modern texture with classic elegance. The engraving creates a striking three-dimensional effect, giving the firearm a dynamic, almost lifelike appearance. Notably, the belly scales along the underside of each pistol add depth and detail, demonstrating both artistic precision and a master engraver’s touch.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt 1911 has stood as an enduring icon of American firepower, serving as a trusted sidearm for the United States military through both World Wars and numerous other conflicts. Even today, it remains in use with select military units, a testament to its timeless design and battlefield reliability. Beyond its military pedigree, the 1911 has earned widespread respect among law enforcement, competitive shooters, and firearms enthusiasts alike. Over the decades, the platform has seen thoughtful refinements, such as improved sights, ergonomic grip enhancements, and the addition of a firing-pin block safety. Yet the heart of the pistol, including its legendary trigger and unmistakable profile, has remained virtually unchanged for over a century. This balance of evolution and tradition is part of what makes the Colt 1911 an American classic.
One artist who shares this appreciation for craftsmanship and timeless design is Gerry Beathard, a master engraver and gunsmith whose work spans rifles, shotguns, pistols, knives, and even jewelry, as well as Western-themed items such as belt buckles. Using traditional hand-engraving techniques, Gerry brings a level of artistry and precision to each piece, whether it’s a one-of-a-kind custom commission or a factory model receiving a personal touch. Each of Gerry’s custom engravings is tailored to reflect the client’s vision. His primary styles include American, German, and English scrollwork, but he is equally comfortable stepping outside those boundaries to create something truly unique. His skill set includes precious metal inlays—from elegant line and scroll inlays to intricate animal and bird scenes—and he frequently employs Bulino engraving for detailed game scenes ranging from busts to full compositions.
He takes particular pride in his deep relief engraving and fine shading techniques, believing that scrollwork should have a three-dimensional quality, with deep, dark backgrounds and a flowing design that guides the viewer's eye across the surface of the piece. This artistry is on full display in the Colt Custom Government .38 Super “El Cen”, a remarkable collector’s piece that has been exquisite hand-engraved by Gerry Beathard. This pistol is adorned with his signature snake scale pattern, meticulously etched into the slide and frame. Traditional American scroll highlights interweave with the modern textural motif, creating a striking contrast that blends classical elegance with bold, contemporary style. This stunning artwork achieves a truly three-dimensional effect, lending the firearm a sense of movement and life.
Notably, the belly scales are etched along the underside of the pistol, adding both depth and dramatic visual texture. The level of detail and precision in this work speaks not only to technical mastery but also to a deep artistic vision. With its blend of historical significance, modern craftsmanship, and bespoke artistry, this Colt Custom Government 38 “El Cen” stands out as a stunning collector’s piece—a fusion of function, form, and fine artistry that commands attention and admiration.
Condition/Contents:
Condition/Contents:
This example is New-Old-Stock Unfired condition showing no evidence of extensive consumer use or handling that we can see. This example will ship with the matching factory-labeled box, the blue Colt box, two magazines, 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.
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.
