Description
Back in the 1970s, the Army faced a problem: there just weren’t enough Colt 1903/1908 pistols to go around for General Officers. That gap led to something quite special—the Rock Island Arsenal M15. Built from trusted 1911/1911A1 parts, this wasn’t just another sidearm. It was a refined, compact evolution of the Colt Combat Commander, crafted specifically for the Army’s top brass.
This particular prototype, marked “RIA1,” holds a special place in that legacy. It’s among the very first M15 pistols ever assembled by Rock Island, and it shows in the details, right down to the deep blued finish that subtly plays with light: polished flats gleaming against softly matte curves. It’s even documented on page 138 of U.S. General Officer Pistols: A Collector’s Guide by Williams and Brunner—hardly an obscure footnote in collecting circles.
Let’s talk function. The slide is fitted with a crisp blade front and square-notch rear sight, classic and reliable. The left side is proudly etched with “General Officers Model,” while the right bears the rare “RIA1” serial—marking it unmistakably as a prototype, not just a production gun with a low number. Its nickel-plated National Match barrel has been shortened for balance, with a chrome-lined bushing that speaks to the care taken during assembly.
Inside, you’ve got a full-length guide rod and recoil spring combo that smooths out recoil like you’d expect from a custom-tuned shooter. The trigger? Long, clean, and adjustable. It’s built for precision, plain and simple.
But it’s not just about what’s under the hood. The exterior shows off thoughtful touches: a checkered front strap and mainspring housing for grip, a streamlined hammer and grip safety, and slim walnut grips featuring the Rock Island Arsenal insignia on the right panel. One final nod to its prototype status? The magazine, marked with a faintly inscribed “1” using an electro-pencil—a subtle but telling detail.
Whether you’re a serious collector or just someone who appreciates the story behind a finely made sidearm, this RIA1 M15 prototype is the kind of piece that doesn’t come around often. It’s history you can hold in your hand.
