The Woodsman Match Target model, produced by Colt Firearms, was a variant of the popular Woodsman .22 caliber pistol series. Known for its extended barrel, adjustable sights, and refined trigger, this specific model was designed for competitive target shooting. Typical examples often featured checkered walnut grips and a high-polish blue finish.
This firearm represented a significant contribution to the world of competitive shooting sports. Its accuracy and reliability made it a favored choice among both amateur and professional marksmen for decades. The pistol’s design, incorporating features intended to enhance precision, reflected Colt’s commitment to producing high-quality firearms for a specialized market. Its historical context within the broader development of .22 target pistols establishes its place as a significant design in firearms history.
Further exploration will delve into specific design features, manufacturing variations over time, and the lasting legacy of this iconic target pistol.
1. Accuracy
Accuracy represents a defining characteristic of the Colt Woodsman Match Target. The pistol’s design and construction prioritized precision shooting. The extended barrel length, typically 6 inches, provided a longer sight radius, aiding in precise aiming. Adjustable sights allowed for fine-tuning the point of impact, accommodating individual shooter preferences and varying ammunition types. The refined trigger mechanism, often featuring a lighter pull weight than standard Woodsman models, minimized disruption during firing, further enhancing accuracy potential. These features combined to create a firearm capable of exceptional performance in competitive target shooting.
Contemporary accounts from competitive shooters and period publications often cited the Match Target’s accuracy as a key factor in its popularity. Examples include consistent wins at regional and national matches, demonstrating the pistol’s effectiveness in practical shooting scenarios. Furthermore, the inherent accuracy of the platform made it a suitable training tool, allowing shooters to develop and refine their skills. This focus on accuracy reflected the growing emphasis on precision within the shooting sports during the mid-20th century.
Understanding the inherent accuracy of the Colt Woodsman Match Target provides crucial insight into its historical significance and enduring appeal among collectors and enthusiasts. While advancements in firearms technology have yielded more modern competition pistols, the Match Target remains a benchmark for .22 caliber target pistols of its era. Its legacy rests not solely on its accuracy but also on the combination of design elements that contributed to its performance and enduring reputation.
2. Adjustable sights
Adjustable sights represent a crucial feature distinguishing the Colt Woodsman Match Target from other variants within the Woodsman series. These sights provide shooters with the ability to fine-tune the pistol’s point of impact, compensating for variations in ammunition, individual shooting styles, and specific target distances. This adjustability proved essential for competitive target shooting, where precise shot placement is paramount. Target pistols lacking this feature often required gunsmith modifications to achieve comparable levels of accuracy customization.
The practical significance of adjustable sights becomes evident when considering the demands of competitive shooting. Variations in ammunition, even within the same .22 caliber designation, can produce slight differences in trajectory and point of impact. Adjustable sights allow shooters to compensate for these variations, ensuring consistent accuracy regardless of the specific ammunition used. Furthermore, individual shooting styles, such as grip and sight picture, can influence bullet impact. Adjustable sights allow for personalized adjustments, optimizing the pistol’s performance for each shooter. Documented examples from competitive matches illustrate how shooters utilized this feature to achieve optimal accuracy at varying distances and under diverse conditions.
The inclusion of adjustable sights underscores the Colt Woodsman Match Target’s design intent as a purpose-built competition firearm. This feature, coupled with the extended barrel and refined trigger, contributed to the pistol’s reputation for accuracy and its enduring popularity among target shooters. Understanding the role and functionality of adjustable sights provides valuable context for appreciating the Match Target’s historical significance within the broader evolution of competitive shooting pistols. The ability to fine-tune accuracy remains a critical consideration in modern target pistols, reflecting the lasting impact of designs like the Woodsman Match Target.
3. Extended Barrel
The extended barrel of the Colt Woodsman Match Target represents a key design element directly influencing its performance and intended purpose. Differing from standard Woodsman models, the extended barrel contributes significantly to the pistol’s enhanced accuracy, a defining characteristic for competitive target shooting.
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Increased Sight Radius
A longer barrel results in a longer sight radius, the distance between the front and rear sights. This increased distance simplifies precise alignment, allowing for finer adjustments and reducing aiming errors. The practical benefit translates to improved accuracy, particularly at longer ranges, a crucial factor in competitive target shooting. The extended barrel of the Match Target, typically measuring 6 inches, offers a substantial advantage over shorter-barreled variants.
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Enhanced Muzzle Velocity
While the effect is less pronounced with .22LR ammunition, a longer barrel generally contributes to slightly higher muzzle velocity. This increased velocity can result in a flatter trajectory, aiding accuracy at longer distances by minimizing the effects of bullet drop. Although marginal, this velocity improvement can be a contributing factor in competitive shooting where small performance gains are highly valued.
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Improved Balance and Handling
The extended barrel shifts the pistol’s center of gravity forward, influencing its balance and handling characteristics. This shift can contribute to reduced muzzle rise during firing, facilitating faster follow-up shots and contributing to overall control. While subjective, many shooters find the balance of the Match Target conducive to precise shooting, particularly in rapid-fire sequences common in competition.
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Visual Distinction
The extended barrel visually distinguishes the Match Target from other Woodsman models. This distinctive appearance contributes to the pistol’s specialized identity and reinforces its intended purpose as a competition firearm. The longer barrel serves as a visual cue, immediately communicating the pistol’s focus on accuracy and performance.
The extended barrel of the Colt Woodsman Match Target, combined with other features like adjustable sights and a refined trigger, creates a firearm specifically designed for competitive target shooting. This feature not only contributes to enhanced accuracy and performance but also symbolizes the pistol’s specialized role within the broader context of the Woodsman series and firearms history. The emphasis on accuracy through an extended barrel continues to influence modern target pistol design, highlighting the lasting impact of this classic firearm.
4. Target Shooting
Target shooting provided the fundamental context for the Colt Woodsman Match Target’s development and enduring relevance. This firearm represents a specific response to the demands of competitive and recreational target shooting disciplines prevalent during its production period. The design features, including the extended barrel, adjustable sights, and refined trigger, directly address the requirements of precision shooting. The Match Target’s inherent accuracy made it a sought-after choice among competitive shooters, while its manageable recoil and refined ergonomics also appealed to recreational target enthusiasts. Examples of its use in organized competitions and documented testimonials from prominent shooters underscore this connection.
The emphasis on accuracy inherent in target shooting drove the design choices evident in the Match Target. Competitive target shooting, in particular, demanded precise shot placement at varying distances. The Match Target’s extended barrel and adjustable sights facilitated this precision, allowing shooters to fine-tune their aim and compensate for variations in ammunition or environmental conditions. The lighter trigger pull minimized disruption during firing, further enhancing accuracy potential. The pistol’s overall design fostered consistent performance, a crucial factor in competitive environments. Examples include documented successes in competitive matches and the continued use of similar features in modern target pistols, demonstrating the lasting influence of this design philosophy.
Understanding the relationship between target shooting and the Colt Woodsman Match Target provides essential context for appreciating its historical significance and enduring appeal. The Match Target reflects a specific period in firearms development where precision and control in target shooting assumed increasing importance. The pistol’s design successfully addressed these demands, establishing its legacy as a highly regarded target pistol. This connection highlights the ongoing evolution of firearms technology driven by the specific needs of various shooting disciplines, with the Match Target serving as a tangible example of this process.
5. .22 Caliber
The .22 Long Rifle cartridge represents an integral aspect of the Colt Woodsman Match Target. This rimfire cartridge’s characteristics significantly influenced the pistol’s design, suitability for target shooting, and overall performance. Understanding the relationship between the .22 caliber and the Match Target provides essential context for appreciating the firearm’s historical significance and enduring appeal.
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Manageable Recoil
The .22 Long Rifle cartridge produces minimal recoil compared to larger centerfire calibers. This reduced recoil contributes significantly to the shooter’s comfort and control, particularly during extended practice sessions or competitive events. Reduced recoil allows for faster follow-up shots and minimizes flinching, ultimately enhancing accuracy. This characteristic made the .22 caliber, and thus the Match Target, particularly well-suited for both novice and experienced target shooters.
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Affordability and Availability
.22 Long Rifle ammunition is generally less expensive and more readily available than larger caliber ammunition. This affordability makes it a practical choice for high-volume shooting, such as training and competitive practice. The widespread availability of .22LR ammunition further contributed to the Woodsman Match Target’s popularity, ensuring shooters could readily access the necessary supplies.
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Accuracy Potential
While less powerful than larger calibers, the .22 Long Rifle cartridge is capable of excellent accuracy, especially in firearms designed for target shooting. The inherent accuracy of the .22LR, coupled with the Match Target’s precision-oriented features, allowed for exceptional performance in competitive and recreational shooting. This accuracy potential made the Match Target a competitive choice in target shooting disciplines where precise shot placement was paramount.
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Reduced Noise and Muzzle Blast
The .22 Long Rifle cartridge generally produces less noise and muzzle blast compared to larger calibers. This reduced report makes it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions and reduces the likelihood of hearing damage. This characteristic, coupled with the minimal recoil, contributed to the .22LR’s popularity in both indoor and outdoor shooting ranges.
The .22 Long Rifle cartridge played a critical role in the Colt Woodsman Match Target’s success as a target pistol. The cartridge’s characteristics of manageable recoil, affordability, accuracy potential, and reduced noise aligned perfectly with the demands of target shooting. This synergy between cartridge and firearm cemented the Match Target’s position as a prominent and well-respected firearm within competitive and recreational shooting circles.
6. Checkered Grips
Checkered grips represent a crucial design element of the Colt Woodsman Match Target, contributing significantly to its handling characteristics and overall performance in target shooting. These grips, often crafted from walnut and featuring precise checkering patterns, enhance the shooter’s grip security and control, ultimately impacting accuracy and shot consistency. Examining the specific facets of checkered grips reveals their importance within the context of the Match Target’s design and intended purpose.
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Enhanced Grip Security
The primary function of checkered grips is to provide a more secure grip surface. The textured checkering pattern increases friction between the shooter’s hand and the grips, minimizing slippage and maintaining consistent hand placement. This enhanced grip security becomes particularly crucial during rapid-fire sequences or under challenging environmental conditions. A secure grip translates directly to improved control and accuracy, essential components of successful target shooting.
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Improved Recoil Management
While the .22 Long Rifle cartridge produces minimal recoil, effective management of this recoil remains crucial for precise shot placement. Checkered grips aid in recoil management by providing a firm and consistent gripping surface. This secure grip minimizes movement of the pistol in the shooter’s hand during recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots and maintaining sight alignment. This enhanced control is particularly relevant in competitive target shooting where small variations in recoil management can significantly impact overall performance.
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Ergonomics and Comfort
The checkering pattern on the grips also contributes to the overall ergonomics and comfort of the pistol. The textured surface provides a more positive and tactile feel, enhancing the shooter’s connection with the firearm. This improved feel can contribute to reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions and promote a more natural and consistent grip. The combination of comfort and control enhances the shooter’s ability to focus on precise aiming and shot execution.
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Aesthetics and Craftsmanship
Beyond their functional benefits, checkered grips contribute to the aesthetic appeal and perceived quality of the Colt Woodsman Match Target. The finely crafted checkering patterns, often executed with precision and attention to detail, reflect Colt’s commitment to craftsmanship. The checkered walnut grips, often featuring a rich, dark finish, enhance the pistol’s visual appeal and contribute to its classic and refined appearance.
The checkered grips of the Colt Woodsman Match Target represent a carefully considered design element that enhances both the pistol’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. The enhanced grip security, improved recoil management, and ergonomic benefits directly contribute to the pistol’s performance in target shooting. The combination of these factors solidifies the checkered grips’ crucial role in defining the Match Target as a high-quality, precision-oriented firearm.
7. Refined Trigger
A refined trigger mechanism represents a critical distinction between the Colt Woodsman Match Target and other models within the Woodsman series. This refinement translates directly to enhanced accuracy potential, a defining characteristic of the Match Target. The trigger’s impact stems from its influence on the shooter’s ability to control the firearm during the firing process. A lighter, smoother trigger pull minimizes disruption of sight alignment and reduces the likelihood of unintentional movement, thus improving precision and shot consistency. Period reviews and comparisons with standard Woodsman models consistently highlight the Match Target’s superior trigger as a key factor in its accuracy advantage. Competitive shooters of the era frequently sought out this specific model for its refined trigger, recognizing its contribution to achieving top scores.
The practical significance of a refined trigger becomes particularly apparent in the context of precision target shooting. A lighter trigger pull requires less force to actuate, reducing the potential for the shooter to inadvertently move the pistol off target during firing. A smooth, consistent trigger pull further minimizes disruptions, ensuring a predictable and controlled release. This predictability allows the shooter to focus on sight alignment and breath control, critical components of accurate shooting. Examples of the Match Target’s success in competitive matches often cite the refined trigger as a contributing factor to consistent performance. The continued emphasis on trigger refinement in modern target pistols underscores the lasting impact of this design element.
The refined trigger of the Colt Woodsman Match Target distinguishes it as a firearm purpose-built for precision. This feature represents a direct response to the demands of competitive target shooting, where small improvements in control can translate to significant gains in accuracy. Understanding the role and impact of a refined trigger provides crucial context for appreciating the Match Target’s historical significance and enduring appeal. Its influence on shooting performance highlights the interconnectedness of design elements and their collective contribution to a firearm’s overall effectiveness.
8. Colt Craftsmanship
Colt craftsmanship represents a defining characteristic of the Colt Woodsman Match Target, inextricably linked to its performance, reputation, and enduring legacy. This commitment to quality manifested in several key aspects of the Match Target’s design and production, influencing its accuracy, reliability, and overall appeal. The precise machining, careful assembly, and high-quality materials employed in its manufacture distinguished the Match Target as a premium firearm within the Woodsman series. This reputation for craftsmanship contributed significantly to the pistol’s desirability among competitive shooters and collectors. Specific examples include the finely checkered walnut grips, the polished blue finish, and the precisely tuned trigger mechanism, all indicative of Colt’s dedication to quality.
The practical implications of Colt craftsmanship extend beyond mere aesthetics. Precisely machined components, such as the barrel and slide, contribute directly to the pistol’s accuracy and consistent performance. Careful fitting and assembly ensure the smooth operation and reliability essential for competitive shooting. The use of high-quality materials, including durable steel and carefully selected walnut, enhances the pistol’s longevity and resistance to wear. Documented accounts from period publications and competitive shooters frequently cite the Match Target’s reliability and consistent performance as key factors in its success. The continued desirability of these firearms among collectors further underscores the enduring value associated with Colt craftsmanship.
Understanding the connection between Colt craftsmanship and the Woodsman Match Target provides crucial context for appreciating its historical significance and enduring value. This commitment to quality represents a core element of Colt’s legacy, influencing the design and production of numerous firearms throughout its history. The Match Target exemplifies this legacy, demonstrating how meticulous craftsmanship translates to enhanced performance, reliability, and lasting appeal. This understanding informs not only the historical assessment of the Match Target but also the broader appreciation of Colt’s contribution to firearms design and manufacturing.
9. Woodsman Series
The Colt Woodsman series provides the foundational context for understanding the Colt Woodsman Match Target. This series, encompassing various .22 caliber semi-automatic pistols, established Colt’s presence in the sporting firearms market. The Match Target represents a specialized variant within this series, distinguished by features specifically tailored for competitive target shooting. Examining the broader Woodsman series illuminates the Match Target’s position within Colt’s product line and clarifies its unique attributes.
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Design Lineage
The Woodsman series, originating in 1915, established a design lineage influencing subsequent Colt pistols. The series introduced features like the distinctive slab-sided slide and grip angle, elements carried forward to the Match Target. Understanding this lineage provides crucial context for appreciating the Match Target’s design heritage and its position within Colt’s historical development of semi-automatic pistols. The Match Target inherited and refined core design elements from earlier Woodsman models, representing an evolution of the series’ core principles.
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Variations and Models
The Woodsman series encompassed various models, each catering to specific needs and preferences. These variations included different barrel lengths, sight configurations, and grip styles. The Match Target represents a distinct model within this broader range, characterized by its extended barrel, adjustable sights, and refined trigger. Recognizing these variations clarifies the Match Target’s specialized purpose and its position within the series’ diverse offerings. Examples include the Woodsman Sport, the Woodsman Target, and the Woodsman Huntsman, each offering distinct features and catering to different shooting applications.
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Manufacturing and Production
The Woodsman series experienced several production periods, reflecting changes in manufacturing techniques and market demands. The Match Target’s production spanned specific years within this broader timeframe, aligning with the growing popularity of competitive target shooting. Understanding these production periods provides context for identifying and authenticating specific Match Target examples, clarifying their historical placement and potential variations in features or markings. Changes in production methods and materials can influence the collectibility and value of specific models.
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Legacy and Influence
The Woodsman series left a lasting legacy on the firearms industry, influencing subsequent .22 pistol designs and solidifying Colt’s reputation for producing high-quality sporting firearms. The Match Target, as a prominent member of this series, contributed to this legacy by demonstrating the potential for accuracy and performance in a .22 caliber pistol. Its influence can be seen in later target pistols from various manufacturers, reflecting the enduring impact of the Woodsman series on firearms design and the specialized niche carved out by the Match Target.
Examining the Colt Woodsman series as a whole provides essential context for understanding the Colt Woodsman Match Target’s significance and unique attributes. The Match Target represents a culmination of design principles and manufacturing expertise developed throughout the Woodsman series, adapted and refined for the specific demands of competitive target shooting. This connection underscores the importance of viewing the Match Target not in isolation, but as a significant component within the broader narrative of Colt’s firearms history and the evolution of .22 target pistols.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the Colt Woodsman Match Target, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What distinguishes the Match Target from other Woodsman models?
The Match Target distinguishes itself through features optimized for competitive shooting: an extended barrel (typically 6 inches), adjustable target sights, a refined trigger mechanism, and often, checkered walnut grips. These features enhance accuracy, control, and overall performance.
Question 2: What is the typical accuracy potential of a Colt Woodsman Match Target?
While individual results vary, the Match Target, with proper ammunition and technique, can consistently achieve groupings of 1 inch or less at 25 yards, a testament to its design and inherent accuracy.
Question 3: Are Colt Woodsman Match Target pistols still manufactured?
No. Colt discontinued the Woodsman series, including the Match Target, in 1977. Existing examples are now considered collector’s items, with values determined by condition, rarity, and historical significance.
Question 4: What type of ammunition is suitable for the Colt Woodsman Match Target?
The pistol is chambered for .22 Long Rifle ammunition. Standard velocity and target-grade ammunition are generally recommended for optimal accuracy and to minimize wear on the firearm.
Question 5: What are key factors affecting the value of a Colt Woodsman Match Target?
Condition, originality, and provenance significantly influence value. Factors such as the presence of original grips, finish quality, and documented history contribute to a pistol’s desirability and market price. Rarity, determined by specific production years and variations, also plays a role.
Question 6: Where can one find reliable information regarding Colt Woodsman Match Target pistols?
Reputable sources include dedicated Colt firearms publications, online collector forums, and established firearms appraisers. These resources offer valuable information regarding historical context, production details, and market valuations.
Understanding these key aspects contributes to a more comprehensive appreciation of the Colt Woodsman Match Target’s historical significance and enduring appeal within the collecting and shooting communities.
Further sections will explore specific examples, historical context, and the lasting legacy of this iconic target pistol.
Colt Woodsman Match Target
Proper handling and maintenance are essential for preserving the functionality and value of a Colt Woodsman Match Target. These guidelines offer practical advice for owners and enthusiasts.
Tip 1: Safe Storage
Store the firearm unloaded, in a secure location, away from unauthorized access. A dedicated gun safe provides optimal protection against theft and accidental discharge. Consider a dehumidifier within the safe to mitigate the risk of rust, particularly in humid environments.
Tip 2: Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning is crucial for maintaining reliable operation. After each shooting session, disassemble the pistol and clean the barrel, chamber, and action components using appropriate solvents and lubricants. Consult a reputable gunsmithing guide for detailed disassembly and cleaning instructions specific to the Woodsman series.
Tip 3: Ammunition Selection
Utilize high-quality .22 Long Rifle ammunition specifically designed for target shooting. Avoid using low-quality or improperly stored ammunition, as this can negatively impact accuracy and potentially damage the firearm. Opt for standard velocity or target-grade ammunition for optimal performance.
Tip 4: Proper Grip and Stance
Consistent grip and stance are fundamental for accurate shooting. Maintain a firm, consistent grip with the checkered walnut grips, ensuring proper hand placement and trigger finger control. Adopt a stable shooting stance to minimize movement and maximize control during firing.
Tip 5: Sight Alignment and Sight Picture
Correct sight alignment and sight picture are crucial for precise shot placement. Align the front and rear sights accurately and focus on the front sight, maintaining a clear sight picture. Consistent application of these principles is essential for achieving optimal accuracy.
Tip 6: Trigger Control
Smooth, controlled trigger pull is essential for accuracy. Gradually apply pressure to the trigger, avoiding jerking or flinching. Practice dry firing (with an unloaded firearm and the magazine removed) to develop consistent trigger control and minimize disruption of sight alignment during firing.
Tip 7: Professional Inspection
Periodically have the firearm inspected by a qualified gunsmith. Professional inspection can identify potential issues before they become significant problems, ensuring the continued safe and reliable operation of the Match Target.
Adhering to these guidelines ensures the long-term preservation and optimal performance of a Colt Woodsman Match Target. Proper care and handling maximize the shooter’s enjoyment and contribute to preserving the historical legacy of this classic firearm.
The following conclusion summarizes the key attributes and enduring significance of the Colt Woodsman Match Target.
Colt Woodsman Match Target
Exploration of the Colt Woodsman Match Target reveals a firearm purpose-built for precision. Its featuresthe extended barrel, adjustable sights, refined trigger, and checkered gripsrepresent a culmination of design elements intended to enhance accuracy and control. Placement within the broader Woodsman series underscores its specialized role as a competitive target pistol. Examination of its historical context reveals a firearm reflecting the demands and advancements of its era. The .22 Long Rifle chambering, combined with Colt’s renowned craftsmanship, further solidified its position as a highly regarded target pistol.
The Colt Woodsman Match Target remains a significant touchstone in firearms history. Its enduring appeal among collectors and enthusiasts testifies to its design excellence and lasting legacy. Continued interest underscores the importance of preserving these firearms and appreciating their contribution to the evolution of target shooting. Further research and exploration offer opportunities to deepen understanding and preserve the historical narrative surrounding this iconic firearm.
