Colt Woodsman 22

cash4stash

I have a Colt Woodsman - I think 1920s. I have never fired it, but I have cleaned it. I have trouble getting the clip out when I push that grooved button at the bottom of the handle. I have looked online and it is the coorect original clip. Also--sorry that I am so ingnorant, but on the back of the grip if a piece of spring steel that clearly is meant to be preesed in -- what is that?
Thanks

cash4stash

Don't know much about firearms. Inherited a Colt Woodsman 22 Automatic. It has original grip, but you can tell it has had some use because barrel finish is off in parts. I'm thinking it's at least 40 years old.
How do I go about figuring out a starting price if I put it up for auction or go to a local dealer?
Also has a well-worn but interesting scabbard
Thanks

22hipower

We need more info in order to assist and pictures would be very helpful. If you'll provide the SN we can tell you when it was manufactured and the basic model (there are several quite different variations though and variations in barrel configuration and sights within the basic models). Also provide barrel length. These were made from about 1915 (pre-Woodsman) until the end of the third model in 1977. Prices range from $300 or so to $1200+ depending on condition and model. The box and paperwork are quite valuable too; especially for the pre-WWII guns. They are terrific little automatics and generally saw quite a bit of use.

ripley16

Here's a site with a wealth of Woodsman info.
http://www.colt22.com/