Colt has launched an initiative offering groups (such as law enforcement offices) the ability to make orders for commemorative custom firearms. From the press release:

WEST HARTFORD, Conn. (January 12, 2015) – Colt’s Manufacturing Company, one of the world’s leading designers, developers and manufacturers of firearms, is proud to announce the launch of its new Commemorative Program. The Colt Commemorative Program allows civic groups, law enforcement units, military personnel and other government agencies to order heirloom-quality, customized Colt firearms.

“The Colt Commemorative Program is an excellent way for a group of close-knit individuals to honor the special bond they share,” said Joyce Rubino, Vice President of Marketing for Colt’s Manufacturing Company. “This program is a completely new offering to civic groups, and we look forward to sharing in their expressions of pride through a custom Colt firearm.”

Commemorative firearms in this program typically include the Colt 1911 (model O1091) or the LE6920 rifle. However, other models may be available depending on the specific project request. A minimum of 25 firearms is required per Commemorative Program order.

As gun laws vary by state, it is the responsibility of the individual/group inquiring about the program to make sure that the requested firearm is legal to own within their respective state. For more information on state gun laws, please reference the NRA’s website.

To submit a request to Colt’s Commemorative Program, please complete the online contact form on Colt’s website under the Customer Services section.

It’s good to see Colt encouraging traditions of this type. Gifting firearms either for holidays or as commemoratives is a tradition that while very old has only recently had its resurgence. It remains to be seen whether this initiative will help Colt out of its recent financial troubles, however.