Colt Sauer .270

13 October 2007   |   by Greg   |   Blog
Introduction

The collaboration between J.P. Sauer and Sohn, a venerable German firearms manufacturer, and Colt, an iconic American arms company, in the manufacture of bolt action rifles between 1973 and 1985, represents a fascinating chapter in the history of firearms.

This period was marked by significant innovations and shifts in the global firearms market, with both companies seeking to expand their influence and meet the evolving needs of gun enthusiasts. J.P. Sauer and Sohn brought their renowned craftsmanship and precision engineering to the partnership, while Colt contributed its vast market reach and brand prestige.

Colt Sauer .270 Bolt Action Rifle

The bolt action rifles produced during this collaboration not only exemplified the merging of American and German firearm traditions but also left a lasting impact on the design and manufacture of rifles in the ensuing decades.

This essay delves into the historical context of this collaboration, examines the unique features and significance of the rifles produced, and explores the legacy they left in the world of firearms.

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Colt contracted with J.P. Sauer and Sohn to manufacture bolt action rifles for several key reasons...

Expanding Product Line - Colt, primarily known for its handguns and military firearms, wanted to expand its product line to include high-quality bolt action rifles. This expansion was part of a broader strategy to diversify its offerings and tap into different segments of the firearms market, particularly the sporting and hunting sectors.

Reputation for Quality and Craftsmanship - J.P. Sauer and Sohn had a long-standing reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and quality in gun manufacturing. Colt recognized that partnering with a company known for its high-quality bolt action rifles would ensure that the new product line met the standards expected by both Colt and its customers.

Colt Sauer .270 Rifle

Technical Expertise and Innovation - J.P. Sauer and Sohn had specific technical expertise and experience in the design and manufacture of bolt action rifles. This expertise was crucial for Colt, which did not have a strong background in this particular type of firearm at the time. The collaboration allowed Colt to benefit from J.P. Sauer and Sohn's innovative designs and manufacturing techniques.

Market Demand and Competition - During this period, there was a significant demand in the U.S. for hunting and sporting rifles. Colt wanted to compete effectively in this market, and collaborating with an established European manufacturer allowed them to do so more quickly and effectively than if they had developed these types of firearms in-house.

Global Branding and Appeal - By partnering with a well-respected European gun maker, Colt could also leverage the global appeal and branding of J.P. Sauer and Sohn. This collaboration allowed them to attract customers who appreciated European design and craftsmanship in firearms.

Economic and Production Efficiencies - Collaborating with J.P. Sauer and Sohn may have also offered Colt certain economic and production efficiencies. By outsourcing the production of these rifles, Colt could avoid the significant investment and time required to set up and fine-tune its own production line for a new class of firearms.

IIn summary, the partnership between Colt and J.P. Sauer and Sohn was driven by strategic business decisions, aiming to leverage the strengths of both companies to produce high-quality bolt action rifles that met the demands of a diverse customer base in the sporting and hunting firearms market.

The Colt Sauer Serial Numbers
Note Letters in Serial Number
The first 18,000 rifles had a prefix of CR letters in the serial number.

Years of DOM           Begin
Serial
Number          
End
Serial
Number          
Prod.
Totals
1973 - 1978 CR0001 CR18000 18,000
1979 - 1985 ?????? ??????? ?????
This bolt action rifle was manufactured just twelve years (1973-1985), by JP Sauer of Germany for Colt.

According to my serial number research, only 18,000 rifles were produced from 1973 through 1978. I don't have the serial number ranges after 1978, but since Colt has published their Serial Number Lookup Database, it is very easy to identify your gun.