When it comes to handguns, the Colt Automatic has been a popular option for generations of shooters across the world. Not only is the Colt Automatic well-respected among handgun enthusiasts, it’s also well-known for its quality and reliability. It’s no wonder, with its classic design, quality craftsmanship and proven performance, that it’s earned its reputation as one of the most revered handguns in existence. Let’s take a closer look to see why the Colt Automatic is such a favorite.
Design
The Colt Automatic is a classic blowback-operated pistol that features a single-action/double-action operation with a slide-mounted safety. It was originally designed in 1901 and was patented in 1905. The original design of the automatic is still in use today, as have been many subsequent modifications. The original Colt Automatic was chambered in .32 ACP and came with an 8-round magazine. Over the years it was also chambered in .380 ACP, as well as 9mm Parabellum, 10mm Auto and .45 ACP. The gun also features an adjustable rear sight and a square-notch rear sight that’s adjustable for windage.
The Colt Automatic is a full-size handgun, measuring 6.75 inches in length with a 4.5-inch barrel. Its weight is not excessive, weighing in at 27 ounces when loaded with rounds in the 8-round magazine. The gun is made of stainless steel and has a parkerized finish that helps protect it from rust and corrosion.
Performance
The Colt Automatic is a reliable performer. It has a smooth trigger pull, with an 8-pound average draw weight for the single action and a 12-pound average draw weight for the double action. Its blowback operating system ensures reliable performance and the adjustable rear sight helps increase accuracy. The gun has a good reputation for accuracy at up to 50 yards and is more than capable of making precision shots at defensive distances. The square-notch rear sight is adjustable for windage using set screws. The gun’s accuracy is further enhanced when used with quality ammunition.
The Colt Automatic also handles well. Its full-size grip provides a solid purchase as does the grooved front strap. The wide, wide-spaced slide allows for fast and easy manipulation, and it locks into place with minimal effort. The gun’s adjustable sights also allow for easy target acquisition, and the gun’s recoil is manageable, even when using full-power .45 ACP rounds. The gun’s single-action/double-action design is also an advantage, as it allows for a smooth trigger pull and quick follow-up shots.
Durability
The Colt Automatic is famously known for its durability. Its stainless steel construction and parkerized finish help protect the gun from corrosion and rust. The gun’s internal components are well designed and made to endure thousands of rounds of use without fail. It’s this durability that makes the Colt Automatic a favorite among those who use it for self-defense or even competitive shooting.
Ammunition
The Colt Automatic can handle a variety of ammunition, including .32 ACP, .380 ACP, 9mm Parabellum, 10mm Auto and .45 ACP. The gun is most commonly chambered in 9mm and .45 ACP. It can also handle a variety of bullet weights, from the lightest lead round nose to the heaviest full metal jacket round.
Price
The Colt Automatic is priced around $800 to $1000 and has a consensus quality score of 4.5 out of 5. The gun’s price is commensurate with its quality and is in line with what other handguns of that caliber cost.
Conclusion
The Colt Automatic has earned its reputation as one of the most reliable handguns ever made. Its time-tested design and quality craftsmanship are a testament to its endurance, and its accuracy and handling have made it a favorite among handgun enthusiasts. Its price is also in line with what you’d expect for a quality firearm of this caliber. If you’re looking for a reliable and functional handgun, the Colt Automatic is a great choice.
Pros:
-The Colt Automatic is lightweight and easy to carry and hide.
-It requires little in the way of maintenance and can last for years if taken care of properly.
-With its quick-fire capability and portability, Colt Automatic weapons are very popular and highly sought after on the civilian market.
-The Colt Automatic is comforable to fire with its ergonomic handle and magazine release.
-It is also relatively inexpensive compared to other semi-automatic weapons.
Cons:
-The Colt Automatic is an older military service weapon and may be difficult to find spare parts or accessories.
-It has a higher recoil than newer weapons, which can make it difficult to shoot accurately.
-It has lower magazine capacity than other semi-automatic weapons, making it less desirable for certain applications.
-The gun can be prone to jamming when used with some types of ammunition.
The COLT COLT Automatic is a semi-automatic handgun. It is suitable for recreational shooting enthusiasts, sports shooters, and individuals who need personal protection. It should not be bought by people who lack the proper training to use a semi-automatic handgun, as its use can be extremely dangerous without training.
Feature | COLT COLT AUTOMATIC | Glock 19 | Walther PPQ M2 | Smith & Wesson M&P | SIG P320 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Caliber | 9mm Luger | 9mm Luger | 9mm Luger | 9mm Luger | 9mm Luger |
Barrel Length | 4.25" | 4.02" | 4" | 4.25" | 4.7" |
Overall Length | 7.75" | 7.36" | 7.1" | 7.4" | 8" |
Magazine Capacity | 8 rounds | 15 rounds | 15 rounds | 17 rounds | 17 rounds |
Weight Unloaded (oz) | 28.0 | 21.16 | 24.5 | 22.7 | 25.8 |
• Caliber: .45 ACP
• Barrel Length: 5"
• Capacity: 7+1
• Finish: Blue
• Action: Single Action
• Overall Length: 8.5"
• Sights: Fixed
• Weight: 28 oz
PISTOL?
The COLT Automatic is generally considered to be an accurate firearm, and can shoot accurately at ranges of up to 50 meters. With proper maintenance and care, the COLT Automatic can remain accurate for many years. Generally speaking, experienced shooters should be able to achieve consistent groupings with this firearm. This precision makes the COLT Automatic a preferred firearm for target shooting, hunting, and self-defense purposes. Additionally, many shooters find the accuracy of the COLT Automatic to be particularly reassuring when carrying it for self-defense.