While the issue of the modern Colt 1911's in two different finishes may have confused history, all the Model 1911 pistols were oven blued by the same method beginning in early 1918. Beginning in May of 1918 the final polish before blueing was more coarse, resulting in a darker color to the finish. This was done to speed up production for the war effort. There may have also been other shortcuts on these late war pistols, as the finish was not as durable as in the past.
Some of the most beautiful military pistols produced were the 1924 Transitions, and they too were blued by the same method
Some of the most beautiful military pistols produced were the 1924 Transitions, and they too were blued by the same method
