Description
A rare piece of U.S. military history, this Colt Service Model Ace, serial number SM15, is a highly desirable pre-war example of the .22 Long Rifle training pistol. Manufactured in 1936, this pistol was among the first Service Model Ace variants obtained by the United States Government for testing and evaluation.
This Service Model Ace features a 5-inch barrel, parkerized finish, and brown checkered Keyes pattern grips. It retains the factory adjustable rear sight and floating chamber, a design intended to replicate the recoil of the .45 ACP for realistic training. Marked U.S. Inspected RIA (Rock Island Arsenal), this pistol is accompanied by extensive provenance, including a copy of the original 1954 sales receipt from Rock Island Arsenal to Captain Mark Jartman, Office of Deputy Chief of Ordnance, Washington D.C.. Also included is the Railway Express Agency shipping receipt, verifying its official transfer.
The pistol remains in very good condition, retaining 97% of its parkerized finish, with a bright bore and a barrel and magazine that still hold most of their original blueing. The original Rock Island Arsenal shipping box is included, with its label intact and the matching federal stocking number scribed on the top.
These early pre-war Service Model Ace pistols, especially those with U.S. military markings, are rarely encountered. A true collector’s piece, this pistol represents an important chapter in the evolution of Colt’s legendary M1911 design.
High Caliber History on Youtube did an amazing and detailed video on the history of this exact firearm. Check that video out by clicking here.
