can you help me help this guy?

[mguffey]

From a recent email:
I think I have a Colt detective special ( I think) on the barrel its says agent 38 special ctg but I cannot find the serial number can you tell me were to look.
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I've asked him to remove the grips but am not sure that will help.

Any suggestions?

Thanks.

 

[GUNKWAZY]

Sounds like he has a Colt AGENT, not a Detective special. If it's ejector rod is shrouded, then he has a 2nd issue AGENT made between 1973-1981. If it's not shrouded, he has a 1st issue made between 1955-1972.
Is it an alloy frame (lightweight) like the Cobra ? Then it's an AGENT.

Hope that helps.

Jeff (GUNKWAZY)

 

[GrandmasterB]

Open the cylinder and look at the frame where the crane pivots and there will be the serial #.

 

[Ala Dan]

The old model Colt Agent's (1st series) are getting quite scarce, being
scooped up by Colt collector's world-wide. I had one for a few years,
and the original selling price written in ink on the box was $89.00. I
eventually sold the little 14 oz gem for quite a profit.

 

[mguffey]

Thanks!

Serial number and model identified.

While I was looking elsewhere, I ran across these other interesting Colt
revolver links, apropos of nothing, but here they are

http://www.aagunsales.com/Main/Firearm History/History of Colt Firearms

http://www.cylinder-slide.com/snubbies.shtml

http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0BQY/is_5_49/ai_99145179#continue

http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3197/is_11_49/ai_n7579173

http://www.horstheld.com/0-Colt-double-action.htm

http://armscollectors.com/srs/lookup_coltda38.php

 

[BluesBear]

Quite often aftermarket grips or Colt grips designed for a DS or Cobra are instaled on an Agent. This will cover up the serial number that should be visable on the bottom of the grip frame.

The principal difference between the original Agent & Cobra was the shorter grips used on the Agent to make it smaller and one ounce lighter.