The Colt Model 1911 “Special Army” is a fascinating and lesser-known variation of the iconic Colt M1911 pistol. Though it was never a formally designated military contract model like the “Model of 1911 U.S. Army,” the term “Special Army” is often used by collectors and historians to describe a small batch of early production M1911 pistols that were closely tied to the initial stages of the U.S. Army’s adoption.

🔫 What Is the Colt 1911 “Special Army”?

The term “Special Army” refers to early production M1911 pistols produced by Colt that were:

• Issued before the time of the official Army contract deliveries.
• Used for testing, and demonstration.

📜 Historical Context

🗓️ March 15, 1911 – Last Test Trial

• At the last trial 1911 Special Army Serial Number 5 fired 6,000 rounds without malfunction or breakage.

🗓️ March 29, 1911 – Official Adoption

• The Colt Model 1911 was officially adopted by the U.S. Army as the “Pistol, Automatic, Caliber .45, Model of 1911.”
• The Army signed a contract with Colt for delivery of 31,344 pistols over several years.

🔧 Special Characteristics

Changes from the Model of 1910:

✅ 1. Heavier Frame

• The frame was made heavier for strength.

✅ 2. Barrel was modified

• The annular barrel rings were modified to only be on the top of the barrel to engage the slide, leaving more metal in the barrel for strength.

✅ 3. Magazine improved.

✅ 4. Larger grip screws.

• Screws changed to eliminate grip panels from coming loose.