Canadian Contract 1911 barrel
- Thread starter Ganderite
- Start date
According to Clawson (Pg 210) Serial Numbers C1 to about C5000 were routinely marked "c" on the rearmost end of the barrel extension or on the back end of the lug bracket, usually marked in both locations. An initial "J" was often stamped on the left lug and the number "5" forward of the lugs to indicate inspections. Other letters and numbers may also be observed. Some of these marks may be omitted or stamped in other locations in any combination. They do not appear to fit a specific pattern.
Serial Numbers from about C5000 to C30000: A "P" was stamped on the top of the barrel near the front of the chamber in addition to the marks mentioned above. However the "C" and other marks were soon discontinued.
Serial Numbers from about C5000 to C30000: A "P" was stamped on the top of the barrel near the front of the chamber in addition to the marks mentioned above. However the "C" and other marks were soon discontinued.
I must have missed this thread, as this sort of question is usually best answered in the 'milsurp' forum these days. Here's exactly what you want to look for:
These are the only markings I've ever found in original Canadian Contract 1911's.
-Steve
These are the only markings I've ever found in original Canadian Contract 1911's.
-Steve
Hi Ganderite,
It could be. I've heard of a few other collectors who have claimed there original Canadian Contract 1911's were also missing the J.
There are some documented 1914 Commercial Colts that with original barrels missing the J. Clawson's book on the subject also says it could be correct for the serial range. I would be a little more comfortable if the J was also there, but it could be okay.
I have not bought one yet with only the P, all the ones I've seen also have the J but it's possible some Canadian Contract 1911's only had the P on the barrel hood. I'd love to get into the War Museum's vault and do some more research on the examples in there.
I think there's a good chance the barrel you found is the original if it otherwise matches the one I've shown above. Check also to make sure they J is not very lightly struck, I have seen them before where it's hardly visible.
I hope this information helps, this is sort of a complicated question!
-Steve
It could be. I've heard of a few other collectors who have claimed there original Canadian Contract 1911's were also missing the J.
There are some documented 1914 Commercial Colts that with original barrels missing the J. Clawson's book on the subject also says it could be correct for the serial range. I would be a little more comfortable if the J was also there, but it could be okay.
I have not bought one yet with only the P, all the ones I've seen also have the J but it's possible some Canadian Contract 1911's only had the P on the barrel hood. I'd love to get into the War Museum's vault and do some more research on the examples in there.
I think there's a good chance the barrel you found is the original if it otherwise matches the one I've shown above. Check also to make sure they J is not very lightly struck, I have seen them before where it's hardly visible.
I hope this information helps, this is sort of a complicated question!
-Steve
