December Collector’s Elite Preview: Ultra-Rare Colts, S&Ws and the Legendary Glock 17L Gen 1
Welcome to the December installment of the Collector’s Elite Auctions Preview Show, where we give high-end firearms collectors an early look at standout pieces heading into auction. This month’s lineup delivers everything from rare Gen 1 Glocks to beautifully executed Colt Custom Shop creations. As always, Allen is joined by Eric from Bryant Ridge to walk through the craftsmanship, rarity and provenance behind each featured item.
Be sure to see all detailed photos of these firearms, plus more than 160 additional premium collectibles, at CollectorsEliteAuctions.com.
Show Highlights
Smith & Wesson 500 Emergency Survival Kit
A complete, untouched survival package featuring the formidable S&W 500 with a 2.75-inch barrel, housed in the bright orange Pelican-style case. Every original accessory is intact—from literature to emergency blankets—making this a true collector-grade kit. Few remain this complete.
Glock 17L Gen 1 — Competition-Length Rarity
A remarkably preserved early-production 17L Gen 1 featuring the six-inch barrel, factory ported barrel, top slide lightening cut and Tupperware box. Produced circa 1988–89 and showing little to no consumer use, this is an elite-level collectible predating Glock’s modern competition models.
Colt 1991A1 Custom Shop “Tiger” TALO Edition
One of only 200 made, this 2005 TALO-exclusive .45 ACP blends tasteful engraving, gold tiger motifs and zebrawood grips for a striking but refined presentation. New old stock, unfired and beautifully preserved—an elegant example of custom Colt artistry.
Colt Custom Shop Magnum Carry — First Edition
A polished stainless .357 Magnum with two-inch barrel and stag grips bearing Colt medallions. Designed as a premium defensive revolver but finished like a showpiece, this first-edition Magnum Carry looks almost too good to holster. Exceptional condition and highly collectible.
- Which of this month’s showcase items would you add to your own collection?
- Do you prefer rare early-generation semi-autos or limited-run custom shop revolvers?
- What categories would you like to see highlighted in future preview shows?
Drop your thoughts, comments and wish-list items — we love hearing from serious collectors.
Visit CollectorsEliteAuctions.com to view full photo sets, detailed descriptions and more than 160 additional premium firearms and collectibles featured in the December auction. While you’re there, be sure to like, share, subscribe and leave a review to help other collectors find the show.
Happy bidding — and good luck securing something extraordinary this month.
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