COLT COLT OFFICIAL POLICE 38
Posted May 19, 2023
The Colt Official Police 38 revolver is an iconic firearm that has been a staple in both military and civilian hands for over a century. It is a gun with a long history, from its beginnings as a duty sidearm for law enforcement agencies to its current status as a popular concealed carry handgun. Given its many varied uses and its long production run, it is no surprise that the Colt Official Police has become a favorite of gun collectors and enthusiasts alike, and it is with that in mind that I offer this review of the Official Police and its features.
The Colt Official Police is a double-action revolver, meaning that after it is cocked and the trigger is pulled, the gun will both cock and fire. This greatly speeds up the rate of fire since the user doesn’t need to manually cock the hammer each time. The Official Police is chambered for the .38 Special cartridge and can hold six rounds in its cylinder. This gives it an advantage over pistols in that it can hold more rounds and can be used for multiple shots without having to reload, something that can be a lifesaver in a critical situation. Its relatively low recoil allows for accurate, controlled shooting, and its relatively large size makes it easy to control, even for inexperienced shooters. Additionally, the Official Police is equipped with a locking bolt that moves into place when the hammer is cocked, adding an extra layer of safety to an already safety conscious design.
In terms of durability, the Colt Official Police will likely give its owner many years of reliable service. The gun is made from high-grade steel, and is given a blue blued finish to protect it from corrosion. This combination gives the gun a great deal of strength and resistance to wear and tear, so it should last the user many years without needing to be replaced. Additionally, the internal components of the gun are well machined and built to last, so long as proper care is taken of the gun.
The Colt Official Police also has a number of features that make it appealing to potential buyers. For one, its large size and weight (2.21 pounds unloaded) make it well suited for open carry, while the fact that it is relatively slender in profile makes it easy to conceal. Additionally, the revolver’s six-round capacity, augmented by its fairly short barrel, make it an excellent choice for home defense. This is even more true with the optional six-inch barrel, which adds more accuracy and range. Another nice feature is the adjustable sights which allow shooters to tailor the gun to their needs, such as at different distances and in different lighting conditions.
All said, the Colt Official Police is a solid choice for shooters looking for a reliable, durable revolver that is well suited for both open carry and concealed carry. Its strong construction, low recoil, and adjustable sights make it a great gun for home defense, while its size and weight balance make it a great choice for those looking for a gun that can be concealed comfortably. With all this in mind, the Colt Official Police is a firearm that has earned its well-deserved reputation as a reliable sidearm that will give its owner many years of reliable service.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Powerful round that packs a punch
- Higher capacity magazine for more rounds
- More accurate on target due to its longer barrel
- Easy to conceal
Cons:
- Recoil can be punishing for some shooters
- Expensive ammunition
- Limited selection of aftermarket accessories
- Heavier compared to other handguns
Who Should Buy
Those who should consider buying a Colt Official Police 38 are those looking for a reliable, well-made revolver for self-defense or home protection. It is a classic and timeless design that stands the test of time.
Those who should not consider buying a Colt Official Police 38 are those looking for a competition shooter or target shooter, as the trigger pull is relatively light and the sights lack some adjustability. Those on a tight budget may want to explore other more affordable options, as this revolver can be expensive to acquire.
Comparisons
| Feature | Colt COLT OFFICIAL POLICE 38 | Similar Product A | Similar Product B | Similar Product C |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 6 Rounds | 6 Rounds | 6 Rounds | 7 Rounds |
| Weight | 33 oz | 34 oz | 34 oz | 31 oz |
| Barrel length | 4 in | 4.25 in | 4 in | 4.25 in |
| Finish | Blued Steel | Stainless Steel | Satin Stainless | Matte Black |
| Grip | Checkered Walnut | Walnut | Rubber | Polymer |
Features / Specs
• Caliber: .38 Special
• Capacity: 6 rounds
• Action: Double/Single Action
• Barrel length: 4¾”
• Overall length: 9¼”
• Weight: 34 ounces
• Grips: Plastic checkered
• Sights: Fixed
• Finish: Blue or Nickel
Popular Accessories
REVOLVER
The most popular accessories for the Colt Official Police 38 Revolver include holster, spare magazines, cleaning kit, and scope or sight. Additionally, combination triggers and grips, speedloaders, recoil buffers, and specialized gun oils are also popular upgrades for this particular revolver.
Accuracy
The Colt Official Police 38 is widely considered to be one of the most reliable handguns ever made. It is known for its accuracy, durability, and smooth handling. It’s a staple of law enforcement and military use and is still popular today with civilian shooters. It has a traditional six-shot revolver cylinder with a reliable action and a comfortable grip. The barrel length of 4", 5", and 6" give the shooter a choice of shooting distances. The Official Police 38 accuracy is highly rated and often exceeds that of many more modern firearms. Depending on the variant and ammunition used, the Colt Official Police 38 is capable of producing groups of 2" to 3" at 25 yards. Its accuracy is largely due to the quality of the manufacturing process, coupled with the weight of the heavy, solid frame design.
