Who Owns Colt Firearms Company?
The Colt’s Patent Firearms Manufacturing Company, better known as Colt’s, is an American firearms manufacturing company that has been a household name for over 180 years. From pistols to revolvers, and from semi-automatic rifles to shotguns, Colt’s has been a leading manufacturer of firearms for military and civilian markets. But, have you ever wondered who owns this iconic company?
Historical Background
Colt’s was founded in 1855 by Samuel Colt, a revolutionary inventor and entrepreneur who revolutionized the firearms industry. Colt was granted the first revolver patent in 1836 and founded the Colt Patent Firearms Company in 1847. Over the years, Colt’s has evolved and adapted to changing markets and technological advancements, establishing itself as a premier firearms manufacturer. In 1847, Colt’s developed the famous Colt 1873 Single Action Army, which became a standard-issue firearm for the US military. Today, Colt’s continues to be a major player in the firearms industry.
Colt’s Changing Ownership
So, who owns Colt’s? In 1901, Colt’s was taken over by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company, with Samuel Colt’s son, Caldwell Hart Colt, still involved as a board member. Winchester-Colt Holding Corporation (WCHC) emerged as the new parent company, producing a range of firearms, including rifles, shotguns, and revolvers.
In 1997, Colt’s filed for bankruptcy and was sold to the US-based Forjas Taurus (Taurus International), a company known for its affordable pistols and revolvers. Colt’s Americas Holding Company** (CACHC) was formed, and the company was reorganized under the brand name "Colt’s Manufacturing Company".
The Present-Day Ownership Structure
Colt’s is currently owned by Cahaba Firearms, LLC (CFLL), an American-based private company with a long history of owning and operating firearms manufacturing and distribution companies.CFLL has been the primary owner and operator of Colt’s since 2021, having acquired the majority stake from the previous ownership group.**Under its new ownership, Colt’s has expanded its product offerings, revamped its manufacturing process, and strengthened its ties with its loyal customer base.
Key Statistics:
- Revenue (2021): approximately $170 million
- Assets: estimated $250 million
- Employees: around 2,500
- Manufacturing facilities: USA (Colt’s HQ in Hartford, Connecticut)
Important Facts:
- Colt’s is headquartered in Hartford, Connecticut, USA, with global operations and distributors.
- The company maintains a significant presence in Colombia, operating a large manufacturing facility that produces various firearms.
- Colt’s has a robust customer base, spanning military forces, law enforcement agencies, and civilian collectors and shooters.
- In 2020, Colt’s launched the Colt Series 901 pistol, which has gained significant popularity in the civilian and law enforcement markets.
Conclusion:
Colt’s is an iconic firearms manufacturer with a rich history and heritage. From Samuel Colt’s innovative designs to the modern-day ownership structure, Colt’s has continuously adapted and evolved to remain a prominent player in the industry. Today, with Cahaba Firearms, LLC as the primary owner and operator, Colt’s continues to expand its product line, streamline its manufacturing processes, and strengthen its bond with customers worldwide. As the industry continues to change and grow, Colt’s remains an integral part of the firearms landscape, trusted by law enforcement, military, and civilian shooters alike.
Colt’s Ownership Structure: A Timeline
- 1847: Colt Patent Firearms Company is founded by Samuel Colt.
- 1855: Colt’s receives its first patent for a revolver.
- 1901: Winchester Repeating Arms Company acquires Colt’s.
- 1997: Colt’s files for bankruptcy and is sold to Forjas Taurus.
- 2000: Colt’s Americas Holding Company (CACHC) is formed, and the company is reorganized.
- 2021: Cahaba Firearms, LLC (CFLL) acquires the majority stake in Colt’s, becoming the new primary owner and operator.
