The Woodsman Match Goal mannequin, produced by Colt Firearms, was a variant of the favored Woodsman .22 caliber pistol collection. Recognized for its prolonged barrel, adjustable sights, and refined set off, this particular mannequin was designed for aggressive goal taking pictures. Typical examples typically featured checkered walnut grips and a high-polish blue end.
This firearm represented a big contribution to the world of aggressive taking pictures sports activities. Its accuracy and reliability made it a popular alternative amongst each newbie {and professional} marksmen for many years. The pistol’s design, incorporating options supposed to boost precision, mirrored Colt’s dedication to producing high-quality firearms for a specialised market. Its historic context inside the broader improvement of .22 goal pistols establishes its place as a big design in firearms historical past.
Additional exploration will delve into particular design options, manufacturing variations over time, and the lasting legacy of this iconic goal pistol.
1. Accuracy
Accuracy represents a defining attribute of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal. The pistol’s design and building prioritized precision taking pictures. The prolonged barrel size, usually 6 inches, offered an extended sight radius, aiding in exact aiming. Adjustable sights allowed for fine-tuning the purpose of influence, accommodating particular person shooter preferences and ranging ammunition varieties. The refined set off mechanism, typically that includes a lighter pull weight than normal Woodsman fashions, minimized disruption throughout firing, additional enhancing accuracy potential. These options mixed to create a firearm able to distinctive efficiency in aggressive goal taking pictures.
Modern accounts from aggressive shooters and interval publications typically cited the Match Goal’s accuracy as a key consider its reputation. Examples embrace constant wins at regional and nationwide matches, demonstrating the pistol’s effectiveness in sensible taking pictures eventualities. Moreover, the inherent accuracy of the platform made it an acceptable coaching instrument, permitting shooters to develop and refine their abilities. This concentrate on accuracy mirrored the rising emphasis on precision inside the taking pictures sports activities through the mid-Twentieth century.
Understanding the inherent accuracy of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal gives essential perception into its historic significance and enduring attraction amongst collectors and lovers. Whereas developments in firearms expertise have yielded extra trendy competitors pistols, the Match Goal stays a benchmark for .22 caliber goal pistols of its period. Its legacy rests not solely on its accuracy but in addition on the mix of design components that contributed to its efficiency and enduring repute.
2. Adjustable sights
Adjustable sights characterize a vital characteristic distinguishing the Colt Woodsman Match Goal from different variants inside the Woodsman collection. These sights present shooters with the flexibility to fine-tune the pistol’s level of influence, compensating for variations in ammunition, particular person taking pictures kinds, and particular goal distances. This adjustability proved important for aggressive goal taking pictures, the place exact shot placement is paramount. Goal pistols missing this characteristic typically required gunsmith modifications to attain comparable ranges of accuracy customization.
The sensible significance of adjustable sights turns into evident when contemplating the calls for of aggressive taking pictures. Variations in ammunition, even inside the similar .22 caliber designation, can produce slight variations in trajectory and level of influence. Adjustable sights permit shooters to compensate for these variations, making certain constant accuracy whatever the particular ammunition used. Moreover, particular person taking pictures kinds, corresponding to grip and sight image, can affect bullet influence. Adjustable sights permit for personalised changes, optimizing the pistol’s efficiency for every shooter. Documented examples from aggressive matches illustrate how shooters utilized this characteristic to attain optimum accuracy at various distances and beneath various situations.
The inclusion of adjustable sights underscores the Colt Woodsman Match Goal’s design intent as a purpose-built competitors firearm. This characteristic, coupled with the prolonged barrel and refined set off, contributed to the pistol’s repute for accuracy and its enduring reputation amongst goal shooters. Understanding the position and performance of adjustable sights gives precious context for appreciating the Match Goal’s historic significance inside the broader evolution of aggressive taking pictures pistols. The flexibility to fine-tune accuracy stays a vital consideration in trendy goal pistols, reflecting the lasting influence of designs just like the Woodsman Match Goal.
3. Prolonged Barrel
The prolonged barrel of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal represents a key design factor immediately influencing its efficiency and supposed goal. Differing from normal Woodsman fashions, the prolonged barrel contributes considerably to the pistol’s enhanced accuracy, a defining attribute for aggressive goal taking pictures.
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Elevated Sight Radius
An extended barrel ends in an extended sight radius, the space between the entrance and rear sights. This elevated distance simplifies exact alignment, permitting for finer changes and lowering aiming errors. The sensible profit interprets to improved accuracy, notably at longer ranges, a vital consider aggressive goal taking pictures. The prolonged barrel of the Match Goal, usually measuring 6 inches, provides a considerable benefit over shorter-barreled variants.
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Enhanced Muzzle Velocity
Whereas the impact is much less pronounced with .22LR ammunition, an extended barrel usually contributes to barely larger muzzle velocity. This elevated velocity can lead to a flatter trajectory, aiding accuracy at longer distances by minimizing the results of bullet drop. Though marginal, this velocity enchancment could be a contributing consider aggressive taking pictures the place small efficiency features are extremely valued.
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Improved Stability and Dealing with
The prolonged barrel shifts the pistol’s heart of gravity ahead, influencing its stability and dealing with traits. This shift can contribute to diminished muzzle rise throughout firing, facilitating quicker follow-up photographs and contributing to total management. Whereas subjective, many shooters discover the stability of the Match Goal conducive to specific taking pictures, notably in rapid-fire sequences widespread in competitors.
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Visible Distinction
The prolonged barrel visually distinguishes the Match Goal from different Woodsman fashions. This distinctive look contributes to the pistol’s specialised id and reinforces its supposed goal as a contest firearm. The longer barrel serves as a visible cue, instantly speaking the pistol’s concentrate on accuracy and efficiency.
The prolonged barrel of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal, mixed with different options like adjustable sights and a refined set off, creates a firearm particularly designed for aggressive goal taking pictures. This characteristic not solely contributes to enhanced accuracy and efficiency but in addition symbolizes the pistol’s specialised position inside the broader context of the Woodsman collection and firearms historical past. The emphasis on accuracy via an prolonged barrel continues to affect trendy goal pistol design, highlighting the lasting influence of this traditional firearm.
4. Goal Taking pictures
Goal taking pictures offered the basic context for the Colt Woodsman Match Goal’s improvement and enduring relevance. This firearm represents a particular response to the calls for of aggressive and leisure goal taking pictures disciplines prevalent throughout its manufacturing interval. The design options, together with the prolonged barrel, adjustable sights, and refined set off, immediately tackle the necessities of precision taking pictures. The Match Goal’s inherent accuracy made it a sought-after alternative amongst aggressive shooters, whereas its manageable recoil and refined ergonomics additionally appealed to leisure goal lovers. Examples of its use in organized competitions and documented testimonials from outstanding shooters underscore this connection.
The emphasis on accuracy inherent in goal taking pictures drove the design decisions evident within the Match Goal. Aggressive goal taking pictures, particularly, demanded exact shot placement at various distances. The Match Goal’s prolonged barrel and adjustable sights facilitated this precision, permitting shooters to fine-tune their intention and compensate for variations in ammunition or environmental situations. The lighter set off pull minimized disruption throughout firing, additional enhancing accuracy potential. The pistol’s total design fostered constant efficiency, a vital consider aggressive environments. Examples embrace documented successes in aggressive matches and the continued use of comparable options in trendy goal pistols, demonstrating the lasting affect of this design philosophy.
Understanding the connection between goal taking pictures and the Colt Woodsman Match Goal gives important context for appreciating its historic significance and enduring attraction. The Match Goal displays a particular interval in firearms improvement the place precision and management in goal taking pictures assumed growing significance. The pistol’s design efficiently addressed these calls for, establishing its legacy as a extremely regarded goal pistol. This connection highlights the continuing evolution of firearms expertise pushed by the precise wants of assorted taking pictures disciplines, with the Match Goal serving as a tangible instance of this course of.
5. .22 Caliber
The .22 Lengthy Rifle cartridge represents an integral facet of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal. This rimfire cartridge’s traits considerably influenced the pistol’s design, suitability for goal taking pictures, and total efficiency. Understanding the connection between the .22 caliber and the Match Goal gives important context for appreciating the firearm’s historic significance and enduring attraction.
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Manageable Recoil
The .22 Lengthy Rifle cartridge produces minimal recoil in comparison with bigger centerfire calibers. This diminished recoil contributes considerably to the shooter’s consolation and management, notably throughout prolonged follow classes or aggressive occasions. Lowered recoil permits for quicker follow-up photographs and minimizes flinching, finally enhancing accuracy. This attribute made the .22 caliber, and thus the Match Goal, notably well-suited for each novice and skilled goal shooters.
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Affordability and Availability
.22 Lengthy Rifle ammunition is usually cheaper and extra available than bigger caliber ammunition. This affordability makes it a sensible alternative for high-volume taking pictures, corresponding to coaching and aggressive follow. The widespread availability of .22LR ammunition additional contributed to the Woodsman Match Goal’s reputation, making certain shooters may readily entry the mandatory provides.
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Accuracy Potential
Whereas much less highly effective than bigger calibers, the .22 Lengthy Rifle cartridge is able to wonderful accuracy, particularly in firearms designed for goal taking pictures. The inherent accuracy of the .22LR, coupled with the Match Goal’s precision-oriented options, allowed for distinctive efficiency in aggressive and leisure taking pictures. This accuracy potential made the Match Goal a aggressive alternative in goal taking pictures disciplines the place exact shot placement was paramount.
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Lowered Noise and Muzzle Blast
The .22 Lengthy Rifle cartridge usually produces much less noise and muzzle blast in comparison with bigger calibers. This diminished report makes it extra comfy for prolonged taking pictures classes and reduces the chance of listening to injury. This attribute, coupled with the minimal recoil, contributed to the .22LR’s reputation in each indoor and outside taking pictures ranges.
The .22 Lengthy Rifle cartridge performed a vital position within the Colt Woodsman Match Goal’s success as a goal pistol. The cartridge’s traits of manageable recoil, affordability, accuracy potential, and diminished noise aligned completely with the calls for of goal taking pictures. This synergy between cartridge and firearm cemented the Match Goal’s place as a outstanding and well-respected firearm inside aggressive and leisure taking pictures circles.
6. Checkered Grips
Checkered grips characterize a vital design factor of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal, contributing considerably to its dealing with traits and total efficiency in goal taking pictures. These grips, typically crafted from walnut and that includes exact checkering patterns, improve the shooter’s grip safety and management, finally impacting accuracy and shot consistency. Inspecting the precise aspects of checkered grips reveals their significance inside the context of the Match Goal’s design and supposed goal.
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Enhanced Grip Safety
The first perform of checkered grips is to offer a safer grip floor. The textured checkering sample will increase friction between the shooter’s hand and the grips, minimizing slippage and sustaining constant hand placement. This enhanced grip safety turns into notably essential throughout rapid-fire sequences or beneath difficult environmental situations. A safe grip interprets on to improved management and accuracy, important elements of profitable goal taking pictures.
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Improved Recoil Administration
Whereas the .22 Lengthy Rifle cartridge produces minimal recoil, efficient administration of this recoil stays essential for exact shot placement. Checkered grips assist in recoil administration by offering a agency and constant gripping floor. This safe grip minimizes motion of the pistol within the shooter’s hand throughout recoil, permitting for quicker follow-up photographs and sustaining sight alignment. This enhanced management is especially related in aggressive goal taking pictures the place small variations in recoil administration can considerably influence total efficiency.
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Ergonomics and Consolation
The checkering sample on the grips additionally contributes to the general ergonomics and luxury of the pistol. The textured floor gives a extra optimistic and tactile really feel, enhancing the shooter’s reference to the firearm. This improved really feel can contribute to diminished fatigue throughout prolonged taking pictures classes and promote a extra pure and constant grip. The mix of consolation and management enhances the shooter’s capability to concentrate on exact aiming and shot execution.
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Aesthetics and Craftsmanship
Past their purposeful advantages, checkered grips contribute to the aesthetic attraction and perceived high quality of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal. The finely crafted checkering patterns, typically executed with precision and a focus to element, mirror Colt’s dedication to craftsmanship. The checkered walnut grips, typically that includes a wealthy, darkish end, improve the pistol’s visible attraction and contribute to its traditional and refined look.
The checkered grips of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal characterize a fastidiously thought-about design factor that enhances each the pistol’s performance and aesthetic attraction. The improved grip safety, improved recoil administration, and ergonomic advantages immediately contribute to the pistol’s efficiency in goal taking pictures. The mix of those elements solidifies the checkered grips’ essential position in defining the Match Goal as a high-quality, precision-oriented firearm.
7. Refined Set off
A refined set off mechanism represents a vital distinction between the Colt Woodsman Match Goal and different fashions inside the Woodsman collection. This refinement interprets on to enhanced accuracy potential, a defining attribute of the Match Goal. The set off’s influence stems from its affect on the shooter’s capability to manage the firearm through the firing course of. A lighter, smoother set off pull minimizes disruption of sight alignment and reduces the chance of unintentional motion, thus bettering precision and shot consistency. Interval opinions and comparisons with normal Woodsman fashions constantly spotlight the Match Goal’s superior set off as a key consider its accuracy benefit. Aggressive shooters of the period ceaselessly sought out this particular mannequin for its refined set off, recognizing its contribution to reaching prime scores.
The sensible significance of a refined set off turns into notably obvious within the context of precision goal taking pictures. A lighter set off pull requires much less power to actuate, lowering the potential for the shooter to inadvertently transfer the pistol astray throughout firing. A clean, constant set off pull additional minimizes disruptions, making certain a predictable and managed launch. This predictability permits the shooter to concentrate on sight alignment and breath management, vital elements of correct taking pictures. Examples of the Match Goal’s success in aggressive matches typically cite the refined set off as a contributing issue to constant efficiency. The continued emphasis on set off refinement in trendy goal pistols underscores the lasting influence of this design factor.
The refined set off of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal distinguishes it as a firearm purpose-built for precision. This characteristic represents a direct response to the calls for of aggressive goal taking pictures, the place small enhancements in management can translate to important features in accuracy. Understanding the position and influence of a refined set off gives essential context for appreciating the Match Goal’s historic significance and enduring attraction. Its affect on taking pictures efficiency highlights the interconnectedness of design components and their collective contribution to a firearm’s total effectiveness.
8. Colt Craftsmanship
Colt craftsmanship represents a defining attribute of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal, inextricably linked to its efficiency, repute, and enduring legacy. This dedication to high quality manifested in a number of key facets of the Match Goal’s design and manufacturing, influencing its accuracy, reliability, and total attraction. The exact machining, cautious meeting, and high-quality supplies employed in its manufacture distinguished the Match Goal as a premium firearm inside the Woodsman collection. This repute for craftsmanship contributed considerably to the pistol’s desirability amongst aggressive shooters and collectors. Particular examples embrace the finely checkered walnut grips, the polished blue end, and the exactly tuned set off mechanism, all indicative of Colt’s dedication to high quality.
The sensible implications of Colt craftsmanship prolong past mere aesthetics. Exactly machined elements, such because the barrel and slide, contribute on to the pistol’s accuracy and constant efficiency. Cautious becoming and meeting guarantee the sleek operation and reliability important for aggressive taking pictures. Using high-quality supplies, together with sturdy metal and punctiliously chosen walnut, enhances the pistol’s longevity and resistance to put on. Documented accounts from interval publications and aggressive shooters ceaselessly cite the Match Goal’s reliability and constant efficiency as key elements in its success. The continued desirability of those firearms amongst collectors additional underscores the enduring worth related to Colt craftsmanship.
Understanding the connection between Colt craftsmanship and the Woodsman Match Goal gives essential context for appreciating its historic significance and enduring worth. This dedication to high quality represents a core factor of Colt’s legacy, influencing the design and manufacturing of quite a few firearms all through its historical past. The Match Goal exemplifies this legacy, demonstrating how meticulous craftsmanship interprets to enhanced efficiency, reliability, and lasting attraction. This understanding informs not solely the historic evaluation of the Match Goal but in addition the broader appreciation of Colt’s contribution to firearms design and manufacturing.
9. Woodsman Collection
The Colt Woodsman collection gives the foundational context for understanding the Colt Woodsman Match Goal. This collection, encompassing varied .22 caliber semi-automatic pistols, established Colt’s presence within the sporting firearms market. The Match Goal represents a specialised variant inside this collection, distinguished by options particularly tailor-made for aggressive goal taking pictures. Inspecting the broader Woodsman collection illuminates the Match Goal’s place inside Colt’s product line and clarifies its distinctive attributes.
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Design Lineage
The Woodsman collection, originating in 1915, established a design lineage influencing subsequent Colt pistols. The collection launched options just like the distinctive slab-sided slide and grip angle, components carried ahead to the Match Goal. Understanding this lineage gives essential context for appreciating the Match Goal’s design heritage and its place inside Colt’s historic improvement of semi-automatic pistols. The Match Goal inherited and refined core design components from earlier Woodsman fashions, representing an evolution of the collection’ core ideas.
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Variations and Fashions
The Woodsman collection encompassed varied fashions, every catering to particular wants and preferences. These variations included completely different barrel lengths, sight configurations, and grip kinds. The Match Goal represents a definite mannequin inside this broader vary, characterised by its prolonged barrel, adjustable sights, and refined set off. Recognizing these variations clarifies the Match Goal’s specialised goal and its place inside the collection’ various choices. Examples embrace the Woodsman Sport, the Woodsman Goal, and the Woodsman Huntsman, every providing distinct options and catering to completely different taking pictures functions.
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Manufacturing and Manufacturing
The Woodsman collection skilled a number of manufacturing durations, reflecting adjustments in manufacturing strategies and market calls for. The Match Goal’s manufacturing spanned particular years inside this broader timeframe, aligning with the rising reputation of aggressive goal taking pictures. Understanding these manufacturing durations gives context for figuring out and authenticating particular Match Goal examples, clarifying their historic placement and potential variations in options or markings. Modifications in manufacturing strategies and supplies can affect the collectibility and worth of particular fashions.
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Legacy and Affect
The Woodsman collection left a long-lasting legacy on the firearms business, influencing subsequent .22 pistol designs and solidifying Colt’s repute for producing high-quality sporting firearms. The Match Goal, as a outstanding member of this collection, contributed to this legacy by demonstrating the potential for accuracy and efficiency in a .22 caliber pistol. Its affect could be seen in later goal pistols from varied producers, reflecting the enduring influence of the Woodsman collection on firearms design and the specialised area of interest carved out by the Match Goal.
Inspecting the Colt Woodsman collection as an entire gives important context for understanding the Colt Woodsman Match Goal’s significance and distinctive attributes. The Match Goal represents a fruits of design ideas and manufacturing experience developed all through the Woodsman collection, tailored and refined for the precise calls for of aggressive goal taking pictures. This connection underscores the significance of viewing the Match Goal not in isolation, however as a major factor inside the broader narrative of Colt’s firearms historical past and the evolution of .22 goal pistols.
Incessantly Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries relating to the Colt Woodsman Match Goal, offering concise and informative responses.
Query 1: What distinguishes the Match Goal from different Woodsman fashions?
The Match Goal distinguishes itself via options optimized for aggressive taking pictures: an prolonged barrel (usually 6 inches), adjustable goal sights, a refined set off mechanism, and infrequently, checkered walnut grips. These options improve accuracy, management, and total efficiency.
Query 2: What’s the typical accuracy potential of a Colt Woodsman Match Goal?
Whereas particular person outcomes range, the Match Goal, with correct ammunition and method, can constantly obtain groupings of 1 inch or much less at 25 yards, a testomony to its design and inherent accuracy.
Query 3: Are Colt Woodsman Match Goal pistols nonetheless manufactured?
No. Colt discontinued the Woodsman collection, together with the Match Goal, in 1977. Current examples at the moment are thought-about collector’s objects, with values decided by situation, rarity, and historic significance.
Query 4: What kind of ammunition is appropriate for the Colt Woodsman Match Goal?
The pistol is chambered for .22 Lengthy Rifle ammunition. Commonplace velocity and target-grade ammunition are usually advisable for optimum accuracy and to reduce put on on the firearm.
Query 5: What are key elements affecting the worth of a Colt Woodsman Match Goal?
Situation, originality, and provenance considerably affect worth. Components such because the presence of authentic grips, end high quality, and documented historical past contribute to a pistol’s desirability and market worth. Rarity, decided by particular manufacturing years and variations, additionally performs a task.
Query 6: The place can one discover dependable info relating to Colt Woodsman Match Goal pistols?
Respected sources embrace devoted Colt firearms publications, on-line collector boards, and established firearms appraisers. These assets supply precious info relating to historic context, manufacturing particulars, and market valuations.
Understanding these key facets contributes to a extra complete appreciation of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal’s historic significance and enduring attraction inside the gathering and taking pictures communities.
Additional sections will discover particular examples, historic context, and the lasting legacy of this iconic goal pistol.
Colt Woodsman Match Goal
Correct dealing with and upkeep are important for preserving the performance and worth of a Colt Woodsman Match Goal. These tips supply sensible recommendation for homeowners and lovers.
Tip 1: Protected Storage
Retailer the firearm unloaded, in a safe location, away from unauthorized entry. A devoted gun secure gives optimum safety in opposition to theft and unintended discharge. Take into account a dehumidifier inside the secure to mitigate the danger of rust, notably in humid environments.
Tip 2: Common Cleansing
Common cleansing is essential for sustaining dependable operation. After every taking pictures session, disassemble the pistol and clear the barrel, chamber, and motion elements utilizing acceptable solvents and lubricants. Seek the advice of a good gunsmithing information for detailed disassembly and cleansing directions particular to the Woodsman collection.
Tip 3: Ammunition Choice
Make the most of high-quality .22 Lengthy Rifle ammunition particularly designed for goal taking pictures. Keep away from utilizing low-quality or improperly saved ammunition, as this could negatively influence accuracy and doubtlessly injury the firearm. Go for normal velocity or target-grade ammunition for optimum efficiency.
Tip 4: Correct Grip and Stance
Constant grip and stance are basic for correct taking pictures. Keep a agency, constant grip with the checkered walnut grips, making certain correct hand placement and set off finger management. Undertake a secure taking pictures stance to reduce motion and maximize management throughout firing.
Tip 5: Sight Alignment and Sight Image
Right sight alignment and sight image are essential for exact shot placement. Align the entrance and rear sights precisely and concentrate on the entrance sight, sustaining a transparent sight image. Constant utility of those ideas is crucial for reaching optimum accuracy.
Tip 6: Set off Management
Clean, managed set off pull is crucial for accuracy. Steadily apply strain to the set off, avoiding jerking or flinching. Follow dry firing (with an unloaded firearm and the journal eliminated) to develop constant set off management and decrease disruption of sight alignment throughout firing.
Tip 7: Skilled Inspection
Periodically have the firearm inspected by a certified gunsmith. Skilled inspection can establish potential points earlier than they turn out to be important issues, making certain the continued secure and dependable operation of the Match Goal.
Adhering to those tips ensures the long-term preservation and optimum efficiency of a Colt Woodsman Match Goal. Correct care and dealing with maximize the shooter’s enjoyment and contribute to preserving the historic legacy of this traditional firearm.
The next conclusion summarizes the important thing attributes and enduring significance of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal.
Colt Woodsman Match Goal
Exploration of the Colt Woodsman Match Goal reveals a firearm purpose-built for precision. Its featuresthe prolonged barrel, adjustable sights, refined set off, and checkered gripsrepresent a fruits of design components supposed to boost accuracy and management. Placement inside the broader Woodsman collection underscores its specialised position as a aggressive goal pistol. Examination of its historic context reveals a firearm reflecting the calls for and developments of its period. The .22 Lengthy Rifle chambering, mixed with Colt’s famend craftsmanship, additional solidified its place as a extremely regarded goal pistol.
The Colt Woodsman Match Goal stays a big touchstone in firearms historical past. Its enduring attraction amongst collectors and lovers testifies to its design excellence and lasting legacy. Continued curiosity underscores the significance of preserving these firearms and appreciating their contribution to the evolution of goal taking pictures. Additional analysis and exploration supply alternatives to deepen understanding and protect the historic narrative surrounding this iconic firearm.
