Some Colt advice

[bigride]

I am not very familiar with "antique" revolvers so I have a question. I have done some internet research but want your opinions. I have an opportunity to get a Colt 1917 AND an older top-break H & R .32 in exchange for a used Ruger SR1911 CMD like new in box ($650ish).

I know...no pictures. Both revolvers are in good/very good condition and look to be in working order, but I have not shot them. H & R appears to be good nickel finish, but I know next to nothing about H&R's.

I am considering this deal only if I can perhaps make a little profit or trade into another gun of greater value than the Ruger SR1911 CMD. Any advice on if this is good deal?

[ImprovedModel56Fan]

I will be watching this thread to see what the guys who know something about this say, but my first reaction is that this is probably a good deal for you. I don't know what the H&R is worth, but probably not much. You say that the 1911 is 650ish, and I have no reason to question you on that. Good Colt 1917s aren't cheap. In general, I don't care much for trading, although I have done it twice, not sorry for either one. You, however, know better than I what the Ruger means to you. Even if you change your mind, you can always buy another one. Not quite as true of the Colt.

Good luck, and stick around for more knowledgeable answers!

[BearBio]

In my opinion, the H & R is likely one of the better tops-breaks (assuming that's what it is). Not much value but there are a limited number of collectors out there. If not, it can make a nice shadow-box. Again, condition will likely be everything.

The 1917 is a different story:

First, you say a 1917 New Service. Technically, the New Service was the 1909 in 45 "long" Colt. However, the 1917 Colt is commonly called the "New Service" as well. So, is it a 45 acp or 45 Colt? The 45 acp is likely worth more but the 1909 is scarcer.

Second, commercial or military? Marked (U.S. Property) under the barrel? If commercial, does it have adjustable sights (a +).

Third: Grips? Original wood (+) or hard rubber? Plastic or Pachmayers (-).

Finish or re-finish (-)? Blue or military? How much is left?

Functionality? Everything works right? Both SA and DA function? Pits? Rust? Scratches or initials?

"Provenance"== Any verbal history or provable history (+)

If you parse out the value, the H $ R is likely worth $75. Is the Colt worth $550? Likely if a decent finish (say 75% or 80%), original grips (wood) and US marked (all functional), the New Service is likely worth or slightly upwards of $1000 (?). An authentic, martially marked 1909 a little more (but smaller market). A commercial model in real good condition, maybe up to $2000. Target models more.

[bigride]

I know it's been a while. Here is a little more info. I really can't tell if this Colt 1917 has been reblued. If it is a reblue, it is an older reblue as it shows holster wear. The pony is visible though not vivid.

If finish is original, then gun is in very very good condition considering age, and I would do this deal. Has all the military markings and grips are in good shape.

Lockup is tight. Needs cleaning, but barrel and cylinder look good. The cylinder is bored to shoot .45 acp without moon clips if you had to.

I wish I was more competent to determine finish originality. What should I look for to determine finish? Any ideas would be appreciated.

Just pretend this is witty.

[S&WIowegan]

Colt 1917s I have were originally a sort of brushed blue finish...nothing fancy for military guns needed quickly. If the gun has been refinished, it will probably be a smooth blue. Many refinished guns will have the markings partially buffed away and some rounding on edges that should be sharp.

I'd do the deal...****ger 1911s are fine but easy to replace.