Please tell me about Colt Detective Specials

[SnubbyMan]

Hello everyone, this is my first post. I've lurked here for a long time and have learned so much. I was lucky to find this site when I first got into shooting a few years ago.

Since that time, I've come to realize I really like revolvers as far as handguns go, especially the snubby. I have both revolvers and pistols, but I seem to have a fascination with snub-nosed revolvers in their various configurations.

I've built up a nice small collection of S&W snubbies but have recently wanted to get a Colt Detective Special.

Can someone tell me about all the differences between the various generations (such as available finishes, sights, triggers, years of production, etc.)? Can any of the generations handle +P ammo? I tend to favor the LSWCHP +P round.

Is there a generation and/or configuration that is generally considered Colt's "best," as far as quality? This will be a "working" gun, not a "safe queen."

Any and all information would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance.

 

[SnWnMe]

Hi Snubby, welcome to TFL. One of our helpful Colt experts will probably address your Q in the by and by. The Colt Forum has plenty of info on Detective Spls as well. It's a slow forum but the knowledge is deep.

http://www.unitedforums.com/cgi-bin...lt+Revolvers&number=7&DaysPrune=10&LastLogin=

 

[SnubbyMan]

SnWnMe

Thank you for the link! There is a lot of information on that board.

 

[Majic]

Very little change was done to the D-frame over it's life.
1st Generation had the long grip frame which make finding stocks like looking for a needle in a haystack.
2nd Generation went to the shorter grip frame and most stocks found today will fit.
3rd Generation has the barrel shroud that covers the ejector rod.

Rear sights have always been the fixed notch. 1st and 2nd Gen front sight blade were of the half round configuration. 3rd Gen front sight was changed to the smooth ramped style.
Finishes have always been a choice of blue or nickel.
Triggers, hammers, and actions remained the same throughout production.
Limited +P ammo usage was allowed for 3rd Gen models.
The best is probably the 1st or 2nd Gen with the classic round barrel IMO.

The newer DSII is an entirely different revolver with a new, more easily manufactored action.

 

[Doug.38PR]

Here is a good site

Snubbyman,
here is a good site for the .38 Detective special.

http://www.thearmedcitizen.com/gunpages/colt_d_s.htm

Good background information on the snubby.

I'd like to get one myself with the summer coming up. Can't conceal my larger handguns without a jacket. Colt Detective Specials and Cobras (same gun only lighter) make a good pocket gun with a 6 shot advantage over the S&W 5 shot.

Doug