Unusual WWII Colt M1911A1

[Tom E Gun]

I recently purchased a somewhat "unusual" WWII Colt 1911. I thought I would share it here...

I have lusted after a really nice condition '42 or earlier Colt 1911 for some time now, but could not justify the expense given my limited collection funds. When the opportunity to acquire this particular pistol, for about a third of typical prices (for a pistol of this age and in this condition), came along I jumped at it. However, as you will see, there is a reason for the "bargin" price.

Here is the pistol:




OK, so now you may have noticed the non-original grips...

It is on the right side of the pistol where things start to get strange:





Some of you may have seen this pistol before. The previous owner posted it on another forum, in 2010, here:

http://wehrmacht-awards.com/FORUMS/s...d.php?t=412992

As you will see if you read the other thread, there are several theories about the age and possible reason for the "modifications". What do you think?

I am assuming that this is a 1942 Colt based on the 809616 serial number. I know about the replacement grips, are there any other non standard '42 parts that you can see? Although it is a shame that the right side was defaced, I am happy to be able to afford to own this interesting pistol.
Cheers
TEG

ps: I am looking for some nice original grips - please let me know if you have a source that will ship to Canada.

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