The Colt New Police

Introduced in 1896, the New Police found an immediate and significant patron in the Police Department of New York City. Commissioner Theodore Roosevelt took it upon himself to re-equip the entire force, which until that time was percussion handguns. In 1896 shipments began of more than 4,500 arms, all of 32 caliber, and roll marked on the backstrap: NEW YORK POLICE. Factory records indicate that Serial #1 was sent to New York for the commissioner's examination; undoubtedly Roosevelt test-fired the pistol himself. He was well known as an expert in the use of firearms - a reputation he earned from his many years of hunting.

The serial range of the New Police also incorporates the New Police Target, the Police Positive 32, and the Police Positive Target. A Colt catalogue of 1905 characterized the New Police as "Light, compact, high velocity and penetration, and very accurate. Adopted by the Police Departments of the principal cities of the United States and Canada. An ideal Pocket or House Arm". The same catalogue spoke of the New Police Target as: "A very fine arm and made to meet the demand for a light, small caliber Target Revolver - medium in price - for both indoor and outdoor shooting, light, smooth pull, and has the special grip which has made Colt's Revolvers so well known.