The Match Target Woodsman is a specific model within the series of .22 caliber pistols manufactured by Colt Firearms. Known for its accuracy and refined features, this firearm was frequently selected for target shooting and competitive events. It typically featured adjustable sights, a longer barrel than standard Woodsman models, and often distinct grip variations. This firearm represents a significant period in Colt’s history, showcasing their commitment to precision and performance in the rimfire pistol market.
Introduced as a higher-grade variant, this pistol offered shooters an enhanced platform for competitive and recreational pursuits. Its accuracy and refined design contributed to its popularity among target enthusiasts and collectors. The historical context surrounding the development and use of this firearm provides insight into the evolution of target shooting and the firearms industry during its production period. Its legacy continues to resonate with enthusiasts today.
This exploration will delve further into topics such as variations within the model line, specific design features, historical production data, and the lasting impact of this firearm on the shooting sports community.
1. Accuracy
Accuracy represents a defining characteristic of the Colt Match Target Woodsman, distinguishing it from other models within the Woodsman series and solidifying its role as a preferred firearm for competitive target shooting. Achieving such precision involved a combination of design elements and manufacturing processes, contributing to the pistol’s reputation for superior performance.
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Barrel Design and Construction
The Match Target Woodsman typically featured a longer barrel than standard Woodsman models. This extended barrel length provided a longer sight radius, enhancing sight alignment and contributing to improved accuracy. Furthermore, the barrels were often manufactured with a tighter tolerance and specific rifling patterns to optimize projectile stability and trajectory.
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Adjustable Sights
Unlike fixed sights found on some Woodsman variants, the Match Target models incorporated adjustable sights. This feature allowed shooters to fine-tune windage and elevation, compensating for variations in ammunition, environmental conditions, and individual shooting styles. The ability to precisely adjust the sights played a crucial role in maximizing the pistol’s accuracy potential.
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Trigger Mechanism
A refined trigger mechanism contributes significantly to accuracy. The Match Target Woodsman often featured a lighter and smoother trigger pull than other models, reducing the potential for disruption during firing. This improved trigger control enabled more precise shot placement.
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Ammunition Selection
While the pistol’s inherent design features play a vital role, ammunition selection also significantly influences accuracy. The .22 Long Rifle cartridge, commonly used in the Match Target Woodsman, offered a variety of loadings, allowing shooters to experiment and identify the ammunition that performed best in their specific firearm.
These factors collectively contribute to the acclaimed accuracy of the Colt Match Target Woodsman. This focus on precision engineering and design solidified the pistol’s position as a highly sought-after firearm for competitive and recreational target shooting, cementing its legacy within the history of Colt firearms.
2. Adjustable Sights
Adjustable sights represent a crucial feature distinguishing the Colt Match Target Woodsman from other Woodsman variants and contributing significantly to its reputation for accuracy. The ability to fine-tune sight alignment allows shooters to compensate for variations in ammunition, distance, and environmental conditions, ultimately enhancing precision and performance. Understanding the different types of adjustable sights available on the Match Target Woodsman provides valuable insight into the pistol’s design and its intended use.
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Target Sights
Target sights typically offer a greater range of adjustment compared to standard sights. These sights often feature a micro-adjustable rear sight with a square notch and a narrow front sight blade. This combination allows for precise adjustments in both windage and elevation. Target sights facilitate optimal sight alignment, enabling shooters to achieve greater accuracy at various distances.
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Micrometer Click Adjustments
Some Match Target Woodsman pistols featured sights with micrometer click adjustments. These mechanisms provided tactile and audible feedback, allowing for precise and repeatable adjustments in small increments. Shooters could document their sight settings for different shooting conditions, ensuring consistent performance. The inclusion of micrometer click adjustments demonstrates the emphasis on precision engineering in the Match Target Woodsman’s design.
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Windage and Elevation Adjustment
The adjustable sights on the Match Target Woodsman facilitated independent adjustments for windage (horizontal) and elevation (vertical) corrections. This capability allowed shooters to compensate for crosswinds and bullet drop, respectively. The separate windage and elevation adjustments provided a high degree of control over sight alignment, further enhancing accuracy potential.
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Sight Picture
The ability to adjust the sights played a crucial role in achieving a consistent and accurate sight picture. Shooters could align the front and rear sights precisely with the target, ensuring proper shot placement. The clarity and adjustability of the sights contributed significantly to the Match Target Woodsman’s reputation as a precision target pistol.
The incorporation of adjustable sights on the Colt Match Target Woodsman underscores its design purpose as a precision target pistol. These features, combined with the pistol’s inherent accuracy and refined trigger mechanism, solidified its position as a preferred choice for competitive shooting and recreational target practice. The ability to customize sight alignment empowered shooters to achieve optimal performance and maximize the pistol’s inherent accuracy potential.
3. Extended Barrel
The extended barrel of the Colt Match Target Woodsman represents a critical design element directly linked to the pistol’s intended purpose: enhanced accuracy for target shooting. Barrel length plays a crucial role in firearm performance, influencing several factors that contribute to precision and shot placement. Understanding the impact of an extended barrel on the Match Target Woodsman requires consideration of its effects on sight radius, muzzle velocity, and overall handling characteristics.
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Increased Sight Radius
A longer barrel inherently increases the distance between the front and rear sights, referred to as the sight radius. This extended sight radius amplifies sight alignment errors, making them more apparent to the shooter and allowing for finer adjustments. The increased sight radius on the Match Target Woodsman contributes significantly to improved aiming precision, particularly at longer distances where slight misalignments can have a more pronounced effect on shot placement.
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Enhanced Muzzle Velocity
While the effect of barrel length on muzzle velocity can vary depending on the cartridge and specific firearm design, a longer barrel generally results in a slightly higher muzzle velocity. The extended barrel of the Match Target Woodsman allows for more complete combustion of the gunpowder, imparting more energy to the projectile. This increased muzzle velocity can translate to a flatter trajectory and reduced bullet drop, further enhancing accuracy, particularly at longer ranges.
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Improved Sight Picture and Stability
The longer barrel can contribute to a more stable sight picture, especially during aiming and firing. The added weight towards the front of the firearm can help reduce muzzle flip and improve overall balance. This enhanced stability aids in maintaining a consistent sight alignment, promoting more accurate shot placement.
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Balanced Handling
While a longer barrel adds weight and can slightly affect the pistol’s balance, the Match Target Woodsman was designed to mitigate these factors. The overall design considerations ensured that the extended barrel did not significantly hinder handling or maneuverability, retaining the pistol’s suitability for target shooting disciplines. The added weight could even contribute to a smoother swing and reduced recoil perception.
The extended barrel of the Colt Match Target Woodsman represents a deliberate design choice aimed at optimizing accuracy. The interplay of increased sight radius, potential muzzle velocity gains, and enhanced stability contributes to the pistol’s reputation as a precision target firearm. This feature, combined with other design elements such as adjustable sights and a refined trigger, solidifies the Match Target Woodsman’s position as a highly sought-after firearm among target shooting enthusiasts and collectors.
4. .22 Caliber
The .22 Long Rifle cartridge represents a crucial element in understanding the Colt Match Target Woodsman. This rimfire cartridge’s characteristics significantly influenced the pistol’s design, intended use, and overall performance. Exploring the relationship between this specific caliber and the Match Target Woodsman provides valuable context for appreciating the firearm’s historical significance and enduring popularity among target shooters.
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Manageable Recoil
The .22 Long Rifle cartridge generates relatively low recoil compared to more powerful centerfire rounds. This characteristic makes it an ideal choice for target shooting, allowing for comfortable extended practice sessions and minimizing shooter fatigue. The reduced recoil contributes to better control and improved accuracy, particularly for novice or recoil-sensitive shooters. The Match Target Woodsman, designed for precision shooting, benefited significantly from the .22 LR’s manageable recoil.
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Accuracy and Flat Trajectory
The .22 Long Rifle cartridge, particularly when used in a firearm designed for accuracy like the Match Target Woodsman, can achieve impressive accuracy at typical target shooting distances. While not as inherently powerful as larger calibers, the .22 LR’s relatively flat trajectory within its effective range contributes to consistent shot placement. This characteristic made it well-suited for target shooting disciplines where precise aiming and minimal bullet drop are crucial.
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Affordability and Availability
The .22 Long Rifle cartridge remains one of the most affordable and widely available cartridges globally. This accessibility contributes to the sustained popularity of .22 caliber firearms for recreational shooting and training. The low cost of ammunition allowed shooters to practice extensively without significant financial burden, further enhancing the appeal of the Match Target Woodsman as a practical target pistol.
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Suitability for Target Shooting Disciplines
The .22 Long Rifle cartridge’s characteristics align well with the requirements of various target shooting disciplines. Its manageable recoil, accuracy potential, and affordability make it a practical choice for both formal competitions and informal target practice. The Colt Match Target Woodsman, chambered in .22 LR, became a favored firearm for bullseye shooting, silhouette shooting, and other precision-oriented disciplines. Its inherent accuracy, combined with the cartridge’s characteristics, contributed to its success in competitive environments.
The choice of the .22 Long Rifle cartridge for the Colt Match Target Woodsman reflects a deliberate design decision aligning with the pistol’s intended purpose as a precision target firearm. The cartridge’s manageable recoil, accuracy potential, affordability, and suitability for target shooting disciplines all contributed to the Match Target Woodsman’s enduring popularity and its prominent place within Colt’s firearm legacy. The synergy between firearm and cartridge solidified the Match Target Woodsman’s position as a highly regarded and practical choice for target shooters of all skill levels.
5. Target Shooting
Target shooting, a discipline demanding precision and control, forms the core context for understanding the Colt Match Target Woodsman. This firearm’s design and features reflect a specific focus on competitive and recreational target shooting, making an exploration of this connection crucial for appreciating the pistol’s historical significance and enduring appeal.
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Disciplines and Competitions
Target shooting encompasses various disciplines, each with specific rules and equipment requirements. Bullseye shooting, silhouette shooting, and metallic silhouette represent some common target shooting disciplines where firearms like the Colt Match Target Woodsman found widespread use. Organized competitions within these disciplines provided a platform for shooters to test their skills and equipment, pushing the boundaries of accuracy and precision. The Match Target Woodsman’s inherent accuracy made it a suitable choice for competitive shooters seeking a reliable and precise firearm.
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Equipment and Techniques
Target shooting often involves specialized equipment beyond the firearm itself, including shooting rests, spotting scopes, and specialized ammunition. Techniques such as proper sight alignment, breath control, and trigger management play critical roles in achieving accuracy. The Colt Match Target Woodsman’s adjustable sights, refined trigger, and manageable recoil contributed to a shooter’s ability to implement these techniques effectively, maximizing accuracy potential. The pistol’s design aligned with the precision demands of target shooting, making it a valuable tool for both novice and experienced marksmen.
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Accuracy and Precision
Accuracy and precision represent fundamental goals in target shooting. Shooters strive to consistently place shots as close to the target’s center as possible. The Colt Match Target Woodsman’s inherent accuracy, facilitated by its extended barrel, adjustable sights, and refined trigger, directly addressed this pursuit of precision. The pistol’s design features enabled shooters to minimize errors and achieve consistent, tight shot groups, essential for competitive success and personal satisfaction in target shooting.
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Mental Focus and Discipline
Target shooting demands significant mental focus and discipline. Shooters must maintain concentration, manage stress, and execute precise movements under pressure. The Colt Match Target Woodsman, by providing a reliable and accurate platform, allowed shooters to focus on these mental aspects of the discipline without being hindered by unreliable equipment. The pistol’s consistent performance provided a foundation for shooters to develop and refine their mental game, essential for achieving peak performance in target shooting.
The Colt Match Target Woodsman represents more than just a firearm; it embodies the pursuit of precision and control inherent in target shooting. Its design features, including adjustable sights, an extended barrel, and chambering in .22 Long Rifle, directly address the demands of various target shooting disciplines. By providing a reliable and accurate platform, the Match Target Woodsman empowers shooters to focus on honing their skills and achieving consistent performance. The pistol’s enduring popularity among target shooting enthusiasts reflects its effectiveness as a tool designed specifically for the pursuit of accuracy and the challenges inherent in this demanding discipline.
6. Collectibility
Collectibility represents a significant aspect of the Colt Match Target Woodsman’s enduring legacy. Several factors contribute to its desirability among collectors, driving interest and influencing market value. Examining these elements provides valuable insight into the pistol’s historical significance and its continued appeal within the firearms collecting community.
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Historical Significance
The Match Target Woodsman holds a distinct place within Colt’s production history, representing a specific era and design philosophy. Its association with target shooting and competitive marksmanship further enhances its historical relevance. Collectors often seek firearms that embody specific periods or trends in firearms development, and the Match Target Woodsman fulfills this criterion, contributing to its collectibility. Its role in competitive shooting history adds another layer of significance for collectors interested in the evolution of firearms technology and sporting practices.
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Rarity and Variations
Specific variations and limited production runs within the Match Target Woodsman model line contribute significantly to collectibility. Factors such as unique finishes, special grips, or commemorative editions can increase a particular pistol’s rarity and desirability. Collectors often seek these less common variations, driving demand and influencing market value. Understanding the nuances of these variations and their respective production numbers becomes crucial for collectors seeking specific models. Rarity often plays a significant role in determining a firearm’s collectibility and potential investment value.
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Condition and Preservation
A firearm’s condition plays a critical role in its collectibility. Pistols retaining their original finish, markings, and mechanical functionality command higher value among collectors. Proper storage and maintenance throughout a firearm’s lifespan contribute significantly to its preservation and, consequently, its collectibility. Collectors often prioritize firearms demonstrating minimal wear and tear, reflecting careful ownership and preservation. Original boxes, accessories, and accompanying documentation further enhance a firearm’s desirability and value within the collecting community.
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Market Demand and Investment Potential
Market demand significantly influences the collectibility and value of firearms. Factors such as historical significance, rarity, condition, and current trends within the collecting community all contribute to market fluctuations. The Colt Match Target Woodsman, due to its combination of historical relevance, performance characteristics, and aesthetic appeal, generally maintains consistent collector interest. While not all firearms appreciate in value, certain models, particularly rare or well-preserved examples, can represent a potential investment opportunity for collectors. Understanding market trends and consulting with reputable appraisers is essential for collectors seeking to assess a firearm’s potential investment value.
The collectibility of the Colt Match Target Woodsman stems from a confluence of factors, including its historical significance, variations within the model line, condition, and prevailing market demand. Collectors appreciate this firearm for its combination of historical relevance, performance attributes, and aesthetic appeal. Understanding these factors allows collectors to make informed decisions and appreciate the nuances that contribute to the Match Target Woodsman’s enduring legacy within the firearms collecting community.
7. Woodsman Variations
Understanding the Colt Match Target Woodsman necessitates exploring the broader context of Woodsman variations. The Match Target represents a specific model within a diverse series, each iteration possessing unique characteristics. Examining these variations provides crucial insight into the Match Target’s position within the Woodsman family and clarifies its distinguishing features.
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First Series (1915-1947)
The initial Woodsman series established the foundation for subsequent models. These pistols typically featured a shorter barrel than later Match Target versions and often lacked adjustable sights. Recognizing these early features helps delineate the advancements incorporated into later Match Target models, highlighting their specialized purpose. Early grips, finishes, and small details can help collectors differentiate between pre-war and post-war first series Woodsman pistols and aid in establishing a timeline of development.
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Second Series (1947-1955)
The second series introduced modifications impacting design and production. Changes included an automatic slide hold-open and a magazine disconnect safety. While some second series pistols shared features with the Match Target, such as adjustable sights, key differences remained. Analyzing these distinctions clarifies the Match Target’s position within the broader second series production, illustrating its unique blend of features. The variations in grip materials and checkering patterns help distinguish this series from the others.
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Third Series (1955-1977)
The third series incorporated further refinements, including changes to the grip design and safety mechanisms. While the Match Target concept persisted, specific features evolved. Examining these later variations helps trace the evolution of the Match Target design across different production periods. The addition of a push-button magazine release and changes to the sights differentiate the third series from its predecessors.
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Target Models
Throughout the Woodsman series, various dedicated target models emerged, each with specific features geared towards competitive shooting. These models often shared characteristics with the Match Target, such as longer barrels and adjustable sights. Comparing these target-oriented variants illuminates the Match Target’s place within the spectrum of Colt’s target pistols, clarifying its intended role and performance capabilities. Subtle variations in barrel length, sight configurations, and grip styles further differentiate these models within the target shooting niche. Understanding these distinctions adds depth to the appreciation of the Match Target Woodsman.
Exploring these Woodsman variations provides a framework for understanding the Colt Match Target Woodsman’s distinct identity within Colt’s product line. By comparing and contrasting the various models, the Match Target’s specialized features and intended purpose become clearer, highlighting its significance as a precision target pistol. This comparative analysis enhances the appreciation for the Match Target Woodsman’s design, performance, and historical context within the broader evolution of the Woodsman series.
8. Colt Heritage
The Colt Match Target Woodsman occupies a significant position within the broader narrative of Colt’s firearms heritage. Understanding this connection provides crucial context for appreciating the pistol’s historical significance, design philosophy, and enduring legacy. Exploring the interplay between Colt’s heritage and the Match Target Woodsman illuminates the firearm’s place within the larger trajectory of Colt’s contributions to firearms development and American history.
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Innovation and Design
Colt’s legacy rests upon a foundation of innovation in firearms design and manufacturing. From the early Paterson revolvers to the iconic Single Action Army, Colt consistently pushed the boundaries of firearms technology. The Match Target Woodsman, with its focus on accuracy and refined features, exemplifies this commitment to innovation. The pistol’s adjustable sights, extended barrel, and carefully engineered trigger mechanism reflect Colt’s dedication to producing high-quality firearms designed for specific purposes. The Match Target Woodsman stands as a testament to Colt’s ongoing pursuit of excellence in firearms design.
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Quality and Craftsmanship
Colt firearms have long been associated with quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. The Match Target Woodsman embodies this tradition, showcasing meticulous manufacturing processes and a commitment to producing durable, reliable firearms. The pistol’s finely crafted components, precise fitting, and smooth operation reflect Colt’s dedication to quality. This emphasis on craftsmanship contributes not only to the firearm’s performance but also to its aesthetic appeal and enduring value. The Match Target Woodsman serves as a tangible representation of Colt’s commitment to producing firearms built to last.
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American History and Culture
Colt firearms have played a prominent role in American history and culture, from the Wild West era to military conflicts and civilian self-defense. The Match Target Woodsman, while primarily designed for sporting purposes, reflects this broader historical context. Its association with target shooting and competitive marksmanship connects it to a significant aspect of American sporting tradition. The pistol’s presence in popular culture, including film and literature, further solidifies its place within the American historical narrative. The Match Target Woodsman represents a tangible link to Colt’s enduring influence on American society.
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Collecting and Legacy
Colt firearms hold a prominent place within the firearms collecting community, reflecting their historical significance, design innovation, and enduring appeal. The Match Target Woodsman, with its specific variations and limited production runs, holds particular interest for collectors. Its association with target shooting, combined with its quality craftsmanship, contributes to its desirability among collectors seeking historically significant and well-made firearms. The continued interest in the Match Target Woodsman ensures its preservation and contributes to the ongoing narrative of Colt’s firearms legacy. Collectors play a crucial role in preserving the history and heritage of these firearms, ensuring their continued appreciation by future generations.
The Colt Match Target Woodsman represents more than just a specific firearm model; it embodies a significant chapter within the larger story of Colt’s firearms heritage. By examining the pistol through the lens of Colt’s historical contributions to firearms innovation, quality craftsmanship, and cultural impact, its true significance becomes apparent. The Match Target Woodsman stands as a testament to Colt’s enduring legacy and its continued influence on the world of firearms.
9. Production History
The production history of the Colt Match Target Woodsman provides crucial context for understanding its variations, features, and overall significance within the broader Woodsman series. Examining specific production periods, manufacturing changes, and relevant historical events illuminates the evolution of this iconic target pistol.
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Pre-World War II Production (1938-1941)
Initial production of the Match Target Woodsman commenced in 1938, introducing a dedicated target-shooting variant to the Woodsman lineup. These early models often featured specific barrel lengths, sight configurations, and grip styles that would evolve throughout the pistol’s production lifespan. Understanding these early features provides a baseline for comparing later variations and appreciating the progression of Colt’s design philosophy for target pistols. Pre-war production numbers often inform collectibility and market value.
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Wartime Interruption and Post-War Resumption (1942-1946)
Production of civilian firearms, including the Match Target Woodsman, was interrupted during World War II as Colt focused on fulfilling military contracts. Post-war resumption of production in 1946 marked a renewed focus on civilian markets. Recognizing this wartime interruption helps explain potential variations between pre-war and post-war models and contextualizes the pistol’s availability within specific historical periods. Changes in manufacturing processes or material availability due to wartime constraints could have influenced post-war models.
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Later Production Periods and Model Variations (1947-1977)
The Colt Match Target Woodsman continued to evolve throughout its production run, with various modifications and refinements introduced over time. Changes to barrel length, sight configurations, grip styles, and other features resulted in distinct variations within the model line. Tracking these changes across different production periods allows collectors and enthusiasts to identify specific models and understand their relative rarity and features. These later variations reflect Colt’s ongoing efforts to refine and improve the Match Target Woodsman in response to market demand and advancements in firearms technology.
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Serial Number Ranges and Manufacturing Dates
Colt maintained serial number records that allow for relatively precise dating of individual firearms. Understanding these serial number ranges is crucial for collectors and researchers seeking to authenticate and identify specific Match Target Woodsman models. Cross-referencing serial numbers with documented production changes helps establish a timeline of the pistol’s evolution and contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of its variations. This information allows for accurate identification and assessment of individual firearms within the collector market.
Examining the production history of the Colt Match Target Woodsman provides essential context for appreciating its place within Colt’s broader firearms legacy. By understanding the various production periods, model variations, and historical influences, one gains a deeper appreciation for the pistol’s evolution, its significance as a target shooting firearm, and its enduring appeal among collectors and enthusiasts. This historical perspective enhances understanding of the Match Target Woodsman’s design, features, and enduring popularity.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the Colt Match Target Woodsman, providing concise and informative responses based on historical data and established knowledge.
Question 1: What distinguishes the Match Target Woodsman from other Woodsman models?
The Match Target Woodsman typically features an extended barrel, adjustable sights, and sometimes enhanced grips, all designed to improve accuracy for target shooting. These features differentiate it from standard Woodsman models intended for general use.
Question 2: What ammunition is appropriate for the Match Target Woodsman?
The Match Target Woodsman is chambered in .22 Long Rifle. Various loadings are available, and shooters often experimented to determine which performed best in their specific pistol.
Question 3: Are Match Target Woodsman pistols still manufactured?
Colt no longer manufactures the Woodsman series, including the Match Target variant. Production ceased in 1977. Existing models are now considered collector’s items.
Question 4: How can one determine the production date of a Match Target Woodsman?
Colt serial numbers provide a relatively accurate method for dating these firearms. Reference tables and resources correlating serial numbers to production dates are available online and in specialized publications.
Question 5: What factors contribute to the collectibility of a Match Target Woodsman?
Condition, rarity, specific features (e.g., special grips or finishes), and historical significance all influence a Match Target Woodsman’s collectibility and market value. Documentation and original accessories can further enhance desirability.
Question 6: Were there significant variations within the Match Target Woodsman model line during its production run?
Yes, variations occurred throughout the production period. These could include changes in barrel length, sight configurations, grip styles, and other features. Understanding these variations is essential for collectors and enthusiasts seeking specific models.
Careful research and consultation with reputable sources are recommended for any acquisition or evaluation of a Colt Match Target Woodsman.
Further sections will delve into specific aspects of this firearm, providing a more comprehensive understanding of its design, history, and enduring legacy.
Tips for Colt Match Target Woodsman Owners
Proper care and handling ensure optimal performance and longevity for the Colt Match Target Woodsman. These tips provide guidance for maintaining this classic firearm.
Tip 1: Safe Storage
Store the pistol unloaded in a secure location, away from unauthorized access. Utilize a quality gun safe or lockable storage case. Ammunition should be stored separately.
Tip 2: Regular Cleaning
Clean the firearm after each use to remove fouling and residue. Follow proper disassembly and cleaning procedures using appropriate solvents and lubricants. Consult a qualified gunsmith if unsure about disassembly or cleaning processes.
Tip 3: Proper Lubrication
Use high-quality gun oil specifically designed for firearms. Lubricate moving parts according to manufacturer recommendations or consult a gunsmith for guidance. Avoid over-lubrication, which can attract dirt and debris.
Tip 4: Ammunition Selection
Utilize high-quality .22 Long Rifle ammunition appropriate for target shooting. Avoid using damaged or corroded cartridges. Experiment with different brands and loadings to determine optimal performance in a specific firearm.
Tip 5: Sight Adjustment
Familiarize oneself with the pistol’s adjustable sights. Practice adjusting windage and elevation to achieve optimal sight alignment and accuracy. Document preferred sight settings for different shooting conditions.
Tip 6: Trigger Control
Develop proper trigger control techniques to minimize disruption during firing. Practice smooth, consistent trigger pulls to improve accuracy and shot placement.
Tip 7: Professional Inspection
Periodically have the firearm inspected by a qualified gunsmith to ensure proper function and address any potential mechanical issues. Professional maintenance can help preserve the firearm’s longevity and prevent potential problems.
Adherence to these guidelines helps maintain the Colt Match Target Woodsman’s performance, preserving its value and ensuring safe operation.
This information provides practical guidance for owners. The subsequent conclusion summarizes key aspects of the Colt Match Target Woodsman and its enduring significance.
Colt Match Target Woodsman
This exploration has provided a comprehensive overview of the Colt Match Target Woodsman, encompassing its design features, historical context, variations, and enduring appeal. From its extended barrel and adjustable sights, engineered for precision, to its significance within Colt’s heritage and the broader landscape of target shooting, the firearm’s legacy remains firmly established. Its association with competitive marksmanship and recreational target practice underscores its role as a purpose-built tool for accuracy. Examination of production history, including variations across different periods, clarifies its evolution and informs collectors seeking specific models.
The Colt Match Target Woodsman stands as a testament to a bygone era of firearms craftsmanship and the enduring pursuit of precision. Its continued presence in collections ensures its preservation as a tangible piece of firearms history, inviting further research and appreciation for its unique place within the lineage of Colt firearms and the broader history of target shooting. Continued exploration of specific models, historical records, and individual experiences with this iconic pistol promises to enrich understanding of its complexities and enduring appeal.
