I bought one of my dream guns! Colt Detective Special!

The Rockford files is my favorite classic TV Show, and Jim Rockfords Colt Detective Special was the first handgun I ever wanted.
I sold some tractors to get money to buy this, now I have one of my all time dream guns!
What are your dream guns? Did you get one yet?

[@michaelshaffer8451]

Many years ago, I happened by my LGS after work and spotted a used Smith Chief’s Special, very lightly used in its original box. It was on consignment for about $50 outside my budget, so I asked the manager if the owner would come down on the price a little so I could swing the deal. As soon as I made my offer, he called the owner and after a brief conversation, the manager smiled and gave me the 👍🏻. My Dad’s birthday was coming up in a couple of days and I remembered him mentioning a few times how sharp he thought the Chief’s Special was and that he always regretted not buying one when he was younger, so I decided to give it to him for his birthday. My Dad was a WWII Navy vet who grew up in a large family during the Great Depression. He was short on emotion, so much so that I can count on 1 hand every time I saw him break down… and this was one of them. Normally, if he received something really nice, he’d always mildly scold the giver for spending hard-earned money on him instead of themselves, but this one really touched his heart. He would go to the bookstore and spend hours searching through the gun section to find out all he could on the Chief’s Special and it was always by his side, either in its box, or in the holster I bought for him. One day, I noticed him looking over the stock, skinny wood grips and remarking about how he was almost afraid the gun would fly out of his hands if he had to shoot it because he couldn’t seem to get a solid purchase on it. The very next day, I went back to my LGS and spoke to the manager about getting fatter grips. He winked and smiled and said that he knew exactly what kind of grips to order in. A week later, I picked up the grips and they were the exact same grips that you have on your Colt, except that it had the Pachmayr logo instead of the Colt. I took them home, swapped them out while my folks were eating dinner and went into the other room to watch tv. About 30 minutes later, all I heard was “MIKE… GET YOUR ASS IN HERE, PRONTO!!!”. When I came back, he asked where I’d gotten the grips and I told him, and when I asked how he liked them, he said “They’re PERFECT!” with a tear in his eye. From that day until the day he died, that gun was either on his hip or in his pocket whenever he left the house.

[@crankygunreviews]

That’s a fantastic story! There are some things in life that no matter what the item is, when given in Love will cause a teary reaction. Because the receiver knows that the giver put a lot of thought into the gift. The grips are called “Pachmayr Compac” grips, and they are pretty good. www.lymanproducts.com/compac-grips

[@oldcop18]

My issued Colt DS saved my life in 1974 when I tried to arrest three armed robbery suspects & they decided to engage me in a gunfight.

[@crankygunreviews]

Great story! The detective special is one amazing firearm

[@erictalkington5674]

And everyone today acts like you HAVE to have 21+ rounds just for self defense! Glad to hear it helped you out!

[@LBT-sy4dp]

Nice to know that the old school they keep safe outside, what they bring packing the robbers?

[@howardkahn4330]

i hope you were within 10 feet of each other otherwise you missed big time...lol

[@joelmelton412]

I have a colt python my parents bought me in 1973 for $236.00.i I think one of the best revolvers made love your detective special.

[@stevenmiller184]

I have a Detective Special with the rubber round butt grips. I really like them, compact but comfortable. Beautifully blued, just enough holster wear to make it interesting. It's a favorite.

[@crankygunreviews]

@@stevenmiller184 mine too!

[@Flexo3D]

I have the same gun. It was the first gun I ever fired. It was left to me by my father when he passed away in 2006.

[@crankygunreviews]

Great story

[@eddiepineiro9145]

My 82 year old father just passed away..and my sister is now the owner of his aluminum frame colt cobra 38 special..😊

[@crankygunreviews]

Sorry for your loss. The Cobra is a sweet piece too!

[@anthonydennis460]

I used a Colt Detective Special from 1967 to 1969 in the Army. It was the first model with the square butt end, not the rounded butt model. Fired it 2 times only to qualify each year. Had a Smith & Wesson Model 10 with 2 inch barrel and carried it 2 years in a Berns Martin upside down shoulder holster, and a 4" S&W Combat Masterpiece that fired double action only when I was a police officer. I owned so many guns and sold them with deep regrets now. I really wanted the Colt Detective Special without the ejector rod housing with the round butt. Looking for one now. It was the official off duty gun for New York and New Jersey police officers. My other passion was for the Colt Single Action .45. Owned 9 of them but sold them. I had the chance to buy a pair of nickel plated Colt SIngle Actions in .357 mag but pass on the deal since they were too heavy. Regret passing on that deal since they were owned ( for about 2 months) by my buddy of 29 years, Clayton Moore, who played the Lone Ranger on TV. I was with him when he bought them and he disliked them as well, finding them too heavy when he got home and tried his twirling routine. He wanted to sell them to me for $400 each, which was what he paid for them. He was in need of a pair which he could not find at the time. He wanted them in .45 Cal. with the 4 3/4" barrel. I am now looking for a Colt Single Action which was always my dream gun,, but I want it in nickel plating, engraved, with ivory grips.

[@crankygunreviews]

The older ones are even bigger money now. I like the unshrouded ejectors as well, hd a couple chances to buy one after I got this one, but I spent so much on this one I could not justify another. Even though Smith and Wesson are expensive they are still cheaper than Colt. And I am not sure Colt are that much Better or if it is just a prestige thing...

[@bamcdowell5478]

I have a nickel, 1974 Colt Detective Special, a sweet pistol!

[@crankygunreviews]

I bet it’s pretty too!

[@maxmccain8950]

Very nice snubby collection. I’ve always liked them, even with all the new wonder blasters.very nice example Colt. Nice find. Great vid sir.

[@crankygunreviews]

Thanks! I’m still looking for another 3” J frame, and like a model 19 or Model 10 snubbie.

[@Ed-ig7fj]

Some of those M-16s were made (partially) by the Mattel Metal Division. Soldiers in Vietnam would ruefully quote the Mattel tag line: "You can tell it's Mattel, it's swell!" The Mattel logo was on the left side of the mag well, and apparently, some had the stamp on the plastic fore stock. I wasn't there; buddies told me about this. Google images has some examples. This Detective Special looks great; it never hurts to have that sixth round in the chamber. Stay strong! --Old Guy

[@crankygunreviews]

I’m preeeeety sure the Mattel M16 is a myth. People used to call it that because it was plastic and looked like a toy. Photoshop can do a lot. But, I wasn’t in Vietnam either

[@glennsammon4465]

loved the Rockford Files when I was a kid so much I also bought the box set. primarily the Colt was used. but other guns were also used. like a S&W M10 2 inch, the piolet had a M19 2.5 inch. and yes, sometimes his gun was the older version of the DS with the exposed ejector rod. but you are right , most of the time it was a post '72 ( or 3rd model) Detective Special. have a few of these, and also Cobra and Agents. both pre and post '72. yours looks like it is wearing a pair of Sile grips ( although they look like Pachmayers they another company that got away with copying them). now you have to look for an older one, and then one each of the Cobra and Agent, the pre and post '72. you won't be disappointed .

[@crankygunreviews]

Yeah, I have looked for a cobra, and I just can’t justify spending another $900-1100 for one… I have the Rockford box set, and I’ve seen the whole series at least 7 times. About to start again. I know he did have other carry guns once in a while too, but the DS was his primary, and a good choice

[@cliffberry1900]

I purchased a 4th gen in 1993. Best choice I've ever made. Love it to this day! A little work of art. Wife can shoot it with ease at the range. We are on the same wavelength; The Rockford Files is my favorite all time show too!

[@crankygunreviews]

It has a smooth action like no other revolver I own

[@cliffberry1900]

Absolutely- Like butter. I love your taste in guns and TV shows.

[@crankygunreviews]

Thanks!

[@SHOT_GUNNER]

Very nice collection here! I am a HUGE Colt pistol/revolver fan. Once you buy one you get spoiled and get the “bug” to buy many more. Those vintage J frames are beautiful too. I have a family heirloom Colt 1895 DA .38LC revolver that I admire. My next purchase will be a Colt 1911 Blued finish. 🤠

[@crankygunreviews]

I’m just a big fan of vintage steel revolvers in general :) S&W, charter arms, Colt, they’re all good

[@glennsammon4465]

same thing happened to me. now I own quite a good number of Colts.

[@MA-vw1pl]

I love modern autos like glock, berrettas etc... But a nice bluesteel doubleaction 6 round 38 spec +p or 357 mag snubbie wheelgun still makes me wanna go shootin...👍😁👍 A snubbie with 2 or 3 loaded comp2 safariland speedloaders sure makes a pretty picture!

[@crankygunreviews]

These are some of the sweetest made

[@Borz862]

Great video🦾

[@crankygunreviews]

Thank you!

[@woodtool2882]

I picked one of these up today. Mine is nickel plated. I love it!

[@crankygunreviews]

Very nice!

[@gw3598]

Colt never made a stainless DS. They made the DSII and SFVI both in stainless. And they made the Magnum Carry a stainless 357 magnum.

[@veedub447]

They are selling for $1200 now . A classic

[@crankygunreviews]

One popped up near me recently, early 90’s variant with wood grips for $699. I haven’t looked at it cause I know I’ll want it

[@thomasdearment3214]

I like mine as a security guard I carried a police positive and positive special like them so I got a detective great gun.

[@crankygunreviews]

Excellent

[@alanbryant8245]

Excellent video, loved Jim Garner in Rockford Files. Mine is a little more worn, bought after I got out of the Marine Corps 40 years ago, fits great in my Carhartt Vest with a couple of speed loaders in the other pocket to balance me out. Great gun, put many rounds thru it.⚓️🇺🇸

[@crankygunreviews]

They are fantastic

[@erictalkington5674]

This DS has a "heavy barrel" so it is a little stronger. I have a late 60's Colt Agent with the exposed rod and it's bad ass. I have the panel grips on it and I carry it constantly! I got videos on my guns if you wanna check them out. I assure you though, just look up pics of DS with the panel grips and it looks so cool and it looks more old school. It's amazing.

[@crankygunreviews]

Yeah I like the wood grips way better than rubber, and may buy them for mine. I like the thinner barrel with exposed ejector rods better, but these are smooth to holster (supposedly) and the ejector rod is protected.

[@gregsmith4337]

Just inherited one from an uncle. Didnt know to much about this gun until one of my employees saw me looking at it and fell in love with it. He has tried everything besides trading his first born for it , so I started researching it. I've come to love this little beauty also. Great video !

[@crankygunreviews]

It’s such an amazing model of good American Craftsmanship! Buttery smooth, deep bluing, great carry piece, great show piece! Good luck with yours

[@gruntspy44]

Damn old timer... thats a nice ensemble of snubbys

[@crankygunreviews]

Thanks! I love snubbies

[@richardrichmond8006]

Nice, and good for you. I have a second model Detective special made in 1967, and a 1959 Vintage Colt Cobra.

[@crankygunreviews]

Very nice!

[@jameslohr4943]

I've got one of these with the wooden grips from '74 that I paid $450 for a few years ago. It was a trade-in and the gun store employee didn't realize the value apparently. It's definitely one of my favorites.

[@crankygunreviews]

The values are all over the board... I paid $900 for mine, I have seen a few recently around $599-699

[@jameslohr4943]

@@crankygunreviews the value will just keep rising. Awesome decision to sell something to pay for it, I just got super lucky with mine. Hope it still brings you lots of joy, thanks for sharing!

[@crankygunreviews]

I would buy another in a heartbeat, but having one is good enough for now. Mine is in really nice shape @@jameslohr4943

[@radiohobbyist13]

Sadly, in 2021 the Colt name is no longer synonymous with quality. This company is a victim of their own mismanagement, greed and stupidity. Yes, the Detective Special was a very special firearm.

[@crankygunreviews]

I love this gun- I know people have been having mixed Luck with modern ones.

[@MrRexdale71]

I must agree. In it's day, the Colt name was synonymous with quality. The first revolver I bought for concealed carry in 1993 was a Detective Special. When I try to load 6 rounds in the cylinder, I found one of the holes had not been bored out enough thus not allowing the last round to fit in the cylinder. The store owner happened to have another one on the premises to give me as a replacement. The firing pin broke on that particular one after a month. I sent it back to Colt for service. 8 weeks later,I got the revolver back. I sold it immediately. I and others I have known have had negative experiences over the years with Colts, including Python's and the King Cobra's. I ended buying a used 2" S&W Model 10.

[@wizardofahhhs759]

My dream gun is any COLT revolver. The S&W J frames are o.k. but they don't have the "feel" of a COLT.

[@crankygunreviews]

I like both- J frames aren’t the same class gun as the Detective Special but I love J frames

[@thomaschusk]

I had the exact service gun except with a smaller walnut grip of which had the golden "Colt" insignia on it. It looked so elegant and better to be conceal-carried.

[@crankygunreviews]

I’m always watching for a walnut grip, but being a colt they’re expensive

[@user-tn1er9mj1p]

In the pilot episode, he used a Smith and Wesson. Three fifty seven magnum model nineteen.

[@crankygunreviews]

@@user-tn1er9mj1p yep, I think I even mentioned that in my video. At 2:47

[@harleyandguns]

Good review. I have the same version from 1978. About 10-12 years ago I bought a used Glock 22 for $375. Wasn't for me so I traded it for the Colt DS. Didn't think much about it at the time but in hindsight it was a steal. I have both the Colt factory rubber grips and the wood grips. It is by far my most favorite revolver. Congrats on you acquisition of one.

[@crankygunreviews]

Thanks! This is really a sweetheart of a gun!

[@craigfinley2507]

​@@crankygunreviewswhat inch barrel is it

[@crankygunreviews]

@@craigfinley2507 1 7/8” or 2”

[@devoliajones3088]

Mine is just like your's I changed to wood grips gives it that vintage look

[@crankygunreviews]

Yeah, I have been keeping an eye open for wood grips.

[@gw3598]

Good luck trying to find the correct wood grips! I've been looking for years, for both my gen 4 DS and my Magnum Carry.

[@user-pp5ij5yh5n]

The gun in bullet was a 2/12 in colt python 357 cal. Excellent gun I still own bought in 1982, today worth about $ 2500 easy ,, great gun but a bit heavy 👍👍

[@crankygunreviews]

Yes I know it wasn’t a detective special in Bullitt, but it was similar, and James Garner did carry a DS in most of The Rockford Files

[@user-pp5ij5yh5n]

No offense meant , I own a 1968 colt det spl. Old style and a colt det. Spl 1978 new style…..and yes in f rochpkford files the first gun he carried was a s+w 2 in model 10 K frame very heavy own one of those too old 👮👍

[@crankygunreviews]

@@user-pp5ij5yh5n I have a 2” model 10 as well 😊

[@mikematusek4233]

John Way carried Diamondbacks and Pythons though I think he used a DS. But they all vanished in his hands. I have an early ('73) Colt Cobra, that I've had since 1987. It's cousin is the Rock Island M206.

[@markkaufman9758]

Enjoyed watching this video!

[@crankygunreviews]

Thanks for stopping by!

[@gw3598]

Third gen had wood grips. Your gun has factory Colt rubber grips which makes it a gen 4.

[@crankygunreviews]

Close enough for me though

[@napluvr4173]

you should try the other end of the spectrum. i picked up a 1920 dated colt new service in 45 colt that needed some maintenance. it is definitely big iron. very smooth and well made, even if the finish isn't amazing after 100 years.

[@crankygunreviews]

I have a 1928 YOM Smith and Wesson Hand ejector, super smooth, and amazing so I know what you mean

[@joeltowle2737]

I've had I think 3 different DS over the years! My first was the light weight Cobra! Great Video

[@crankygunreviews]

Thanks for watching!

[@joeltowle2737]

@@crankygunreviews you're very welcome!

[@ToddTheGunGuy]

Beautiful 😍

[@crankygunreviews]

I agree :) it’s been a long awaited purchase for me.

[@joemorganeatmyshortschannel]

very cool and congrats hope you enjoy it must be the year for it ive got two of mine that dpms ar15a2 carbine and now that savage 1917 thats supposed to go out tomorrow loved the road to perdition ever since then wanted one

[@crankygunreviews]

I love the road to perdition too! Great Tom Hanks flick.

[@joemorganeatmyshortschannel]

@@crankygunreviews that savage has always had a cool factor for me got an idea for you movies that got you to buy guns

[@invisibletosociety8338]

A weapon from a more civilized time. Love snub nose revolvers, would love to get a Colt but it's way out of the budget.

[@crankygunreviews]

This was way out of my budget for the longest time. Only recently I’ve been able to afford a nicer stuff.

[@garylewis3641]

I have a Colt Agent around 1980 or so. Didn't really think it would be one of favorites but I'm glad I bought it now. It's like a Detective Special but has an aluminum frame. Nice to carry but doesn't shoot as nice but still glad to have it!

[@crankygunreviews]

They’re well made but cost so much I shoot my S&W and Charter arms so much more

[@garylewis3641]

@@crankygunreviews Yeah, I don't blame you!

[@cleondubois1270]

A previous owner must have put those Pachs on yours. Colt put out a limited edition in 93,94 & 95 and they all had factory Pachs . I found my lightly used 94 vintage DS around that time frame. Think I payed around 150 for it. The bluing is still beautiful & in almost new condition. Supposedly Colt found some stored away parts and decided on a limited run for those 3 years.

[@crankygunreviews]

Very possible. I think they’re cool cause they have the Colt logos

[@Mec22222]

I have the same one un fired brand new in the box 👍🏻

[@crankygunreviews]

Wow!

[@singleactionrevolver4376]

Just bought 4gen at the local dealer for 1000. the best thing about colts if you spend to much just wait 6 months. great video

[@crankygunreviews]

I paid $900 for this, I feel like it was $300 too much… these were $600 two years ago

[@Yeager123123]

@@crankygunreviewsJust spent $1000 on mine so they’re holding value at least. Mine is in good shape

[@crankygunreviews]

@@Yeager123123 excellent!

[@prestochange0]

Looks clean bro nice collection !

[@crankygunreviews]

Thanks!

[@WAFFENAMT1]

Had one of these, purchased exact model sometime in the 90's, I think for somewhere around $300 very cool iconic gun, but I did not like how it handled, I could barely hit the target with it, and it hurt my hand when I fired it, so it was sold long ago.

[@crankygunreviews]

Wow $300 is a good deal. These were $500-600 all day then Covid hit and prices skyrocketed

[@kylewood8327]

Rockford probably used a gen 2 Colt Detective Special since he was sport’n a wood grip. The gen 3 DS’s came standard with the pachmyr grips. Excellent show for the day too!

[@crankygunreviews]

I think it may have been a gen3 with wood grips but I can’t remember

[@kylewood8327]

@@crankygunreviews Possible, the only difference between the two is the grips.

[@crankygunreviews]

@@kylewood8327 somewhere along the line they went from unshrouded ejector to shrouded- I think his was shrouded with wood grips.

[@danielfriedrich5737]

Have a 1987 agent and love it.

[@crankygunreviews]

Smoothest action revolver I own!

[@MrSgtau]

Very nice Colt that you've got there! I've got two Detective Specials, a 2nd generation from 1964 and a 4th generation from 1994 that looks just like this one. I paid about $300 for each, so I must have got them about 20 years ago. The modern Colt Cobra is another fine revolver, and I was fortunate to pick up mine for under $500 two years ago.

[@crankygunreviews]

I wish I got this that cheap! Prices have skyrocketed. I’m still happy with this even if I paid more than I could have a few years ago.

[@mreastla2953]

@@crankygunreviews do you

[@crankygunreviews]

@@mreastla2953 do I what?

[@mreastla2953]

@@crankygunreviews do you mind me asking how much you paid for the colt

[@crankygunreviews]

@@mreastla2953 $900

[@mrfazzy3137]

Love that pistol....I had to settle for the m206😅

[@crankygunreviews]

Yeah this guy was not cheap... And they have only gone up since I bought mine.

[@Gieszkanne]

Kojak had the 2. gen but I think the 3. gen looks much better.

[@crankygunreviews]

I like the non shrouded ejector, but it can get bent easier. The 3rd gen colt DE does look nice

[@epps1217]

Pretty gun.

[@crankygunreviews]

Thank you!

[@yupiboon9003]

One of my guns is colt detective I love this detective so much

[@crankygunreviews]

It’s a sweet piece of work!

[@mkshffr4936]

A 44 Magnum lever action rifle and a 45 Colt SA revolver.

[@crankygunreviews]

Good choices!

[@craigfinley2507]

Damm you got a nice collection i love short revolvers

[@crankygunreviews]

Thanks man, I may make an all inclusive video some Day but I’m not sure I want to have them all in one video lol

[@craigfinley2507]

I hear you , did the first .model colt detective I think came out in 1927 was it in 32 or 38​@@crankygunreviews

[@crankygunreviews]

@@craigfinley2507 not sure

[@craigfinley2507]

@@crankygunreviews Ok

[@mralarmingchildishmonster2891]

I have one.

[@crankygunreviews]

Excellent

[@zerpblerd5966]

great get another beauty

[@zerpblerd5966]

love that grip because of how classic it is but yeah, wood of course would be even sweeeter - would never get rid of the original though of course

[@crankygunreviews]

@@zerpblerd5966 I like that it’s a pachmayr with Colt logos

[@zerpblerd5966]

@@crankygunreviews yesss

[@msmeltzer1]

I have 4 Detective Specials. If you’re looking to upgrade grips consider Altmont Grips or Badger Grips

[@crankygunreviews]

Thanks! Haven’t looked at Altamont for this yet, but I have them on other guns I have and love them,

[@keetonchannel847]

Omg my wife just got same exact gun I’m not kidding exactly like your gun I can’t find any gun like this no where what shell is the best to use in this gun. Because I literally can’t find one like this but you have the exact one we have.

[@keetonchannel847]

We just got are gun from a 82 year old man he said mafia used these back in the old days.

[@crankygunreviews]

It’s such a nice revolver, I paid $900 for mine, I’ve seen them for more lately.

[@crankygunreviews]

@@keetonchannel847 I have heard the mafia liked all forms of small revolvers for pocket carry.

[@keetonchannel847]

Cranky Gun yes the old man that gave my wife her gun it’s just the same as yours it looks as if it has only been fired couple times.But yes she said he told her that he could have sold it for 1200$ a couple of times but he didn’t need to sell it. Thanks for video buddy I subscribed to ya.

[@crankygunreviews]

Yeah, two or three years ago they were $550-650. Wished I bought a few at that price- maybe prices will come back down

[@alvarojavier9995]

Que lindos revolveres

[@crankygunreviews]

I agree!

[@alvarojavier9995]

@@crankygunreviews muchas gracias pues y felicitaciones por tan bellos revólveres

[@crankygunreviews]

@@alvarojavier9995 👍

[@drmitofit2673]

I just bought what might be a super rare alloy 100% condition Colt Cobra (lightweight aluminum alloy version of the Detective Special) serial number AC12XX, which on the Colt Serial Number look up app says it was made in 1993 even though Colt Cobra production officially ended in 1981. My theory is that Colt built some Cobras from left over frames during the 1992 bankruptcy restructuring period when Colt Detective Special production was restarted (fourth series). What do you think?

[@crankygunreviews]

I’m not a historian so I couldn’t say. That would be cool though

[@mandahlaalachii8677]

Pura chulada 😂👍👍👍👍

[@crankygunreviews]

👍

[@zerpblerd5966]

In the pilot episode of Rockford Files, he shoots down a private plane with this gun - if they'd have made the shots hit when the plane was closest to him, mayyyybe I'd have believed it, but it was still a fun+cool scene to see after the vids here about the gun ( : "I don't know how to tell you this, buster, but you just can't go around shooting down light aircraft with a handgun." - hilarious

[@crankygunreviews]

He used a Smith and Wesson model 19 in that scene actually- a few things changed after the pilot, his gun, and the actor that plays his dad.

[@zerpblerd5966]

@@crankygunreviews oh oh, interesting to know! thanks!

[@michaelshaffer8451]

@@crankygunreviews Believe it, or not, I actually owned a Smith Model 19 Snubby for several years in the 90s. I carried that beauty with me everywhere in a Galco Escort fanny pack that I’d carry over my shoulder like a handbag. I used to get jeers and snide comments from a lot of people who’d see me toting that bag around. My buddies who knew I carried understood and stopped giving me grief, once they realized what was in the bag. One of the STUPIDEST mistakes I’ve ever made in my life was trading the 19 in on a Beretta 8040 Cougar when it first came out. When I found an 8040 at one of the LGS in my area, I asked them to put a hold on it while I rushed home to pickup my trade. When I showed the salesman the 19, he asked me about 10 times if I was ABSOLUTELY SURE that I wanted to trade it for the 8040. His hands were literally shaking as he transferred it from the counter to the inventory room and handed me my new purchase. The very next day, I took the 8040 to the range and discovered very quickly that no matter how I held it, I couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn with it. A few days later, after buyer’s remorse set in, I brought it back to the LGS I bought it from to see if I could get the 19 back, even if it meant spending more money to make it happen. The same salesman waited on me again when I came back, and when I asked if they still had the 19, he started laughing hysterically and pointed to his hip. He said “That’s why I asked you multiple times if you were SURE you wanted to trade it in… as soon as the deal was completed and you left, I pulled out my credit card and purchased it myself… sorry buddy, but you can’t say I didn’t warn you!” As pissed as I was, I couldn’t blame him because he was 100% right. He went on to inform me that he had been banished to his couch ever since that day because he didn’t run it by his wife before purchasing it. When I asked him why he didn’t call her, he told me that he KNEW she’d say “NO!!!” anyway and that silver lining was that he was sleeping better at night because his wife snored something awful, so for him, it was a win/win.🥴

[@crankygunreviews]

@@michaelshaffer8451 yeah, I have had only a couple buyers remorses on trading stuff in- one was a near mint model 36 square butt 3” barrel… traded that and a bodyguard .380 in for a SP101. I’ve since bought another 3” model 36 and another bodyguard, and I still have the SP101 lol

[@zerpblerd5966]

I'm always looking for excellent+ TV shows to add to the collection, it's so hard to know what is good without watching, I had contemplated this one a bunch of times but have never tried it... now I will (well, later, but, I'll acquire it and give it a whirl - I'm pretty demanding though, but I also tend to find shows from 60s-90s preferable) !

[@zerpblerd5966]

I really want to give TJ Hooker a try too one I really love is Hill Street Blues

[@crankygunreviews]

The fall guy, Simon and Simon, A Team

[@michaelshaffer8451]

Don’t forget about Cannon, Barnaby Jones and Colombo.😃

[@crankygunreviews]

@@michaelshaffer8451 I didn’t watch those much

[@zerpblerd5966]

@@michaelshaffer8451 not familiar with the first two, but was just thinking about Colombo, watched that some as a kid, wonder how it would sit as an adult Peter Falk is one of the greatest movies of all time though: Wings of Desire

[@pattreadwell6149]

I been searching for a colt 38 detective special

[@crankygunreviews]

They’re few and far between… I missed out on a couple 70’s models that were barely shot, didn’t have the money- I paid $900 for this one, and they’re at that much or more depending on when you find them, and what year you find

[@lloydheinemann9967]

I bought my detective special close to 30 years ago at a pawn shop. A little research showed it was born the same year I was, 1951! It shows it's age, just like I do. One of those guns that will stay with me till I'm done.

[@robertdeegan3213]

Have a 75 3rd series nickle plated.

[@crankygunreviews]

Very nice!

[@Imragnar1]

Two dreams a colt new service in 44 special and any colt shootig master

[@crankygunreviews]

Not a bad dream

[@msmeltzer1]

Slightly bigger, vented rib. Sounds like a older model Python

[@crankygunreviews]

Diamonback. www.imfdb.org/wiki/Bullitt#:~:text=Handguns-,Colt%20Diamondback,Special%20photo%20on%20this%20page).

[@chrisbordeaux575]

Do you have the part number for the pachmayr renegade wood grips on your colt, do you know if they make them for the detective special. I dont see them listed on pachmayr website and i cannot find them listed anywhere on the internet, Thank you.

[@crankygunreviews]

I don’t know the PN on my grips, they were on it when I got it, and they have a colt medallion- check eBay-

[@chrisbordeaux575]

@@crankygunreviews thank you sir.

[@asdf6297]

could you tell me the name of the revolver on the bottom in the minute 0:01 ? the one with the heavy barrel

[@crankygunreviews]

Ruger SP101, 357 magnum 3” barrel in stainless

[@JackSmith-nf2xh]

How much is a 3rd gen nickel plated model in like new condition?

[@crankygunreviews]

More than I want to spend

[@zerpblerd5966]

heyyyy, I probably need a great practical (but 'old') tractor - might try to hit you up ( :

[@crankygunreviews]

They’re vintage Sears tractors- practical and useful,

[@zerpblerd5966]

@@crankygunreviews : O~

[@zerpblerd5966]

my dream gun is a BM-59

[@crankygunreviews]

I had to look that one up! Pretty rare I’d imagine!

[@zerpblerd5966]

@@crankygunreviews classicfirearms over the past few years (from my looking back at their videos) had gotten some batches with new barrels+mechanics but old furniture from James River Armory, a few variants too, gorgeous I saw them on there a year+ ago but I couldn't get the CC right (needed to up my limit, rarely use one) quick enough to get one before they were gone - probably just as well, not nearly as practical ask an AK-M which I ended up getting and now they are probably too $$$ if they ever come back around - plus considering ammo and that I don't have any other 7.62x51 / .308 to overlap /dreams

[@crankygunreviews]

@@zerpblerd5966 maybe one day. Just be patient. This one happened because the time was right.

[@zerpblerd5966]

@@crankygunreviews eh, I'm a poor farmer and don't think that will ever change - unless I strike gold digging around in dirt and rocks I don't pine/ache for it or anything, I'm content to have it be a dream gun and am happy with the practical ones I was able to get ( :

[@crankygunreviews]

@@zerpblerd5966 and you have a great attitude 👍

[@amaliaguglielmini1327]

Hola, tengo exactamente la misma arma que vos, un Colt Detective Special, Calibre 38 Spl. Cañón de 2", con Cachas Anatómicas Pachmayr de Factory. Tengo 3 preguntas? Pregunta N° 1 Tengo entendido que este revolver se fabrico entre 1992 y 1995 siendo lo ultimo que fabrico la firma Colt del Modelo Detective Special , pero quisiera saber exactamente el año de fabricación? Colt se acogió a la protección por quiebra en 1992. Después de la reorganización, la empresa reinició la producción del Detective Special en 1992. El Detective Special posterior a 1991 se denomina a veces la Cuarta Serie y presenta empuñaduras envolventes "compuestas" (goma) con un medallón de oro. Solo se ofreció un barril de dos pulgadas, en acabado azul o cromado duro. La nueva producción continuó solo hasta 1995, cuando Colt presentó su SF-VI de acero inoxidable como reemplazo del Detective Special. Pregunta N° 2 Esta ultima serie que algunos la denominan 4° y otros la denominan 5°, esta ultima denominación se debe a que fue la única y ultima serie que salió con Cachas Pachmayr de fabrica, siendo las anteriores 3° y 4° Generación o Serie con Cachas de madera. Pregunta N° 3 Porque a esta arma se la denomina de "Culto", así lo han expresado en muchos videos inclusive en el tuyo. Bien, nada mas, solo agradecerte tus respuestas, muy bueno tu video. Saludos desde Buenos Aires Argentina

[@crankygunreviews]

I don’t know that much about Colt history, sorry, I was told mine dates to 1982 based on the SN but I haven’t looked,

[@craigfinley2507]

You are a lucky guy i always wanted one, what did it cost you. Let me know

[@crankygunreviews]

900

[@craigfinley2507]

​@@crankygunreviewswow , but I think those and the S&w are much better than the new ones plus they are all steel which I prefer , what length is the barrel on that

[@crankygunreviews]

@@craigfinley2507 1 7/8” or 2”

[@craigfinley2507]

@@crankygunreviews cool the same as the model 36 S&w right

[@crankygunreviews]

@@craigfinley2507 barrel length is similar yea

[@craigdamage]

Wood grips are better. Rubber is too sticky and can snag on clothing when attempting a quick draw.

[@crankygunreviews]

I usually would agree with you, but these aren’t sticky at all. Usually I have wood for carry, and rubber for target shooting. I don’t carry this gun too often, I think it’s the most expensive handgun I own.

[@michaelshaffer8451]

I would tend to agree about rubber grips, but mainly in regard to the ones made by Hogue. Don’t get me wrong, Hogue rubber grips are first quality, but the 2 things that bother me about them are that they are WAY too sticky, especially in warmer weather, and that I simply DO NOT like the outer texture of the Hogues. Pachmayr grips are made from a harder rubber and the texture,in my hands, is the hands-down winner. The downside of Pachmayrs is that they don’t offer options to that many guns anymore, as Hougue has taken over and dominated the rubber grip market over the last 20 odd years. Pachmayrs can still be had, but the gun you want to put them on had better be a tried and true classic, otherwise you’ll have to go with Hogue. Once again, this is a personal preference and in NO WAY am I discounting Hogue’s quality… I’m just old-school that way I suppose.🤷🏻‍♂️

[@crankygunreviews]

@@michaelshaffer8451 I wholeheartedly agree with you

[@JackSmith-nf2xh]

He used a 3rd gen model and you have the 4th gen model

[@crankygunreviews]

Close enough for me

[@thefrogking481]

I have this pistol except with hardwood grips. After your first slice of misinformation I started typing. First, Smith had more contracts. Comparing this to a Smith J frame is not accurate. The Colt D frame falls between the K and the J. Colt was plagued with quality isues and had reliability concerns as compared to Smith. Its a personal choice, I understand, but facts are facts.

[@crankygunreviews]

I never said they had more contracts, I said Colt had a lot of contracts. I don’t think that is misinformation. And if I take a Detective special and put it in most of my J frame holsters, it’s slips right in. It’s extremely loose in a K frame holsters, and I do mention it is a little bigger than a J frame. I don’t think my facts were wrong, maybe you didn’t watch the whole video or just like nitpicking, but thanks for commenting either way 👍

[@jamesfarmer6004]

Entering or exiting a rest area (24/7), along the highway or freeway can be dangerous for a lone woman driver. An incident occurred three decades back where an Arizona woman is accosted and confronted by a depraved lowlife predatory criminal at a deserted public rest area. It's titled: "Bitches with Guns" and ran in Women And Guns Magazine (1994). The defense handgun wielded by the armed woman in this situation was a .38 Special Ruger SP-101 revolver with 2.4”-barrel, stainless steel, with five shot swing out cylinder. Not a shot was even fired. Just the mere presence of this handgun aborted a dangerous vicious criminal perpetrating violent sexual assault (rape), kidnapping, or murder against his intended female victim! What would have been the outcome if this woman didn't have her .38 Special on her person? Handgun in this video is a living example of a single woman's best friend in time of need. Not only in the nightstand (next to the bed), or bureau drawer inside her dwelling, but likewise while stranded and broken down in some isolated remote out of the way region. Especially where it's a so called "Dead Zone" with no cell phone reception. This video is an example of such in the Nevada desert, perhaps? Also, while entering or exiting a rest area (24/7) along the highway or freeway. I endorse two books on this subject: "Armed and Female: Taking Control" (2010) by Paxton Quigley, and "Dial 911 and Die: The Shocking Truth About The Police Protection Myth" (1999) by Richard W. Stevens. The latter can be accessed at www.jpfo.org or read online via Google at You Tube. Another video on the classic D-Frame Colt .32 and .38 caliber revolvers. The Colt Agent (1955-1979) in this video is simply a variant of Colt's D-Frame Police Positive Special revolver, including the Cobra and Detective Special. From 1973 onward, these classic D-Frame Colt .38 Special revolvers incorporated slightly improved sights, better hand filling hard rubber or walnut grips, and a shrouded ejector rod. The aforementioned Colt Cobra was originally produced from 1950 to 1981, as an alloy frame version of the famous Detective Special. I had the chance to pick the former (Cobra) up for around $400.00 back in the 1990's, which of course I sort of regret not doing. It was owned by a former retired Ventura County Sheriff's Captain, now deceased, who formerly resided in Klamath Falls , Oregon. These classic "snub-nosed revolvers" which include the previously mentioned D-Frame Colts, including the J-Frame Smith and Wesson Chief's Special series: Model 36 and 37 "Air weight", Model 60 (stainless steel version of Model 36), Model 38 and 49 Bodyguard, and Model 40 Centennial (enclosed hammer or firing pin inside frame) were, and still remain so today in the 21st century, excellent concealed carry handguns for both sexes. Same for the Brazilian imports by Taurus and Rossi, not to mention Ruger's SP-101 .38 Special with either 2.4" or 3.1" barrel. Note former U..S Senator Harry Reid (D) of Nevada in this video. James A. "Jim" Farmer (Klamath County, Oregon): Long Live The State of Jefferson

[@crankygunreviews]

Great info! Thanks for stopping in, I love hearing people’s stories and recollections on these guns.

[@howardkahn4330]

colt looked better built than the s/w, BUT it was not, the colt regardless of the advertisement it COULD NOT handle +P's, mine broke down twice

[@crankygunreviews]

I have heard the same. They’re just not super heavy duty. Well machined, nice bluing, but not made for long term abuses

[@peterbye82]

The Rockford files is a film its not real life

[@crankygunreviews]

And?