Colt Metropolitan

[wdkline]

New to me Colt Metropolitan Mark III 38 Special found at a local show. Not a common DA revolver. Same frame/works as the Lawman Mark III. CCH hammer/trigger. Transfer bar safety too. Why buy the 38 Special Metro when the Lawman was chambered in 357 Mag and could shoot either?? Guess that's why it didn't sell and isn't common...



Bill

[A1A]

Neither the Metropolitan MkIII nor the Official Police MkIII were particularly popular in the marketplace. As you say, they were 38 Special with an eye toward politically correct agency use at a time when agencies were transitioning from revolvers. There are several Metropolitans owned by forum members and they are considered very nice shooters. Good find.

[OIF2]

Nice photo, A1A! From my understanding, the MK111 Metropolitan was done at the request of the NYPD; not too many were sold, though, because the M10 Smith was cheaper (all NYPD coppers buy their own guns). I have one now, and it is an awesome fixed-sight shooter. Typical Colt accuracy with wadcutters; POA with 158 grain SWCs. The action, while not like a slick K-frame Smith, ain't bad. A great, under-rated revolver.
Bob

[DFrame]

According to legend, the Metropolitan was produced for "Enlightened" police ADMINISTRATORS who wanted their officers armed with a deadly, weapon but not TOO deadly. Of course the officers hated them because they wanted a THREE FIFTY SEVEN MAGNUM. The Metros often found themselves deserted and unloved in police armorys. When departments began transitioning over to semi-autos many of the old metros were sold. The Metropolitan with its heavy barrel is an unrespected GEM. Mine is typical, with considerable finish and stock wear. What it also is, is one of the most accurate revolvers I've ever owned. Numerous people who've tried mine simply can't believe that a fixed sight 4 inch barrel gun can possibly shoot that good. Congratulations on your new acquisition.