Colt New Police 1907
The Colt New Police revolver, chambered in .32 S&W Long,
is a later model with a swing-out cylinder and case ejector, dating from 1907.
It differs from earlier models by its VP (Verified Proof) stamp on the trigger
guard, indicating that it is suitable for use with smokeless powder. It also
features a wider trigger guard and a different, wider front sight compared to
earlier models.
It should be noted that several variations of this model
exist, including those produced in .32 Long Colt caliber, or in .32 Long Colt
modified to .32 S&W, generally marked "Colt DA 32" or "Colt New Police DA32."
The final models, chambered in .32 S&W, bear the inscription "32 S&W ctg" on the
barrel.
These revolvers are all equipped with a rebounding hammer
and a trigger guard wide enough to protect the trigger when holstered or under
clothing. An additional trigger safety is therefore completely superfluous. As
superfluous as the Abadie system on the St-Etienne 1892 revolvers, which also
have a swing-out cylinder.
In my opinion, it's more of a marketing ploy, just like
on Bulldogs equipped with the completely superfluous Mauser safety lever, which
has been very popular in Germany since the Reichsrevolver.
It should also be noted that the .32 S&W Short version is
identical to the .32 Colt version; however, the appropriate cartridge has a
slightly heavier projectile and is loaded with 150 grains of powder, giving it
similar stopping power to the .32 S&W Long.
Marcel
