From what I understand the SSP was a resurrection of the 1971 program in 1979. The SSP stands for Stainless Steel Pistol and had a few improvements including an ambidextrous safety and removable fire control group. Since this one is carbon steel it should be a 1971.
I was at the original Greg Martin auction in Las Vegas when it sold in 2008. There were a large number of experimental and one of a kind Colt's that sold. I purchased this one of a kind Police Positive Special in 25-20 at the auction:
Seems what looks like the barrel is a shroud integral with the frame, which a barrel liner insert screws into.
I suppose a prototype is a chassis that a lot of unrelated design ideas are thrown at.
I have this stainless .357 from the same auction that was made in late 1960s as one of MKIII prototypes. I keep it because I think that it’s probably the first stainless .357 Colt which was made almost 15 years before the Python and even 6-8 years before the first stainless S&W Model 66. I've actually fired it.
Interesting mix of features. Looking at the ratchet and recoil shield, it looks like Mk III or later type of action. Transfer bar ignition. Trigger guard reminds me of earlier D-frames, the grips again like Mk III. I'm trying to figure out what necessitated the thicker frame overall, were they trying to strengthen the frame for a larger loading, like .357? Perhaps an early Magnum Carry prototype? Or was that to fit the transfer bar mechanism? Push button cylinder release, kinda like the Ruger GP100.
That .25-20 is amazing, really nice, wish it would have made production on a grand scale. Interesting that the grips look a lot like those on my Iver Johnson Supershot .22.
As I recall, at the close of the ‘90’s Colt was set to introduce a multi-caliber d/a revolver, which would shoot 9x19 as well as .38, .357, etc. Then the lawyers shut down revolver production. Was the prototype ever exhibited at SHOT, etc? Love to see some photos of it.
I have 2 Colts, a Police Positive in .38 S&W, and Police Positive Special in 32-20 WCF. Great guns for Hiking and Camping and Just Fun Shooting.
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
Colt Forum
1.8M posts
53.1K members
Since 2000
A forum community dedicated to Colt firearm owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about performance, gunsmithing, troubleshooting, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more!