In a refreshing first, Colt’s put together a limited-edition run of non-NFA launchers. Unlike 40mm launchers, which are considered destructive devices, these are built on virgin receivers with smaller-diameter 37mm tubes.

These launchers can be used to fire flares and smoke canisters as well as novelty payloads. They are not grenade launchers — but they look the part.

They are still considered firearms, of course — just Title 1. Each is serialized and must transfer through an FFL the same way rifles or shotguns are sold.

There are a small number of companies that make similar military-style launchers, but for purists, nothing tops having a Colt roll mark on the side. These are also marked “LAUNCHER, GRENADE M203 40MM” even though they are 37mm launchers and always have been.

Launchers like these are used for training and for fun, but they also are highly collectible. Anyone looking to build the perfect armed forces replica rifle will want one of these.

For now, Colt is doing a limited run of just 300 37mm M203 launchers. They are making 150 launchers with standard 12-inch barrels as well as 150 with shorter, lighter 9-inch barrels.

All 300 are part of a dealer exclusive through Arms Unlimited. Arms Unlimited is one of Colt’s largest dealers. The parts will go on sale Nov. 15.

“For the first time ever the Colt M203 Grenade Launcher offered in 37mm, built in a lightweight, single-shot, breech-loaded weapon specifically designed to be attached to the M4 Carbine and the M16A2 and A4 Rifles,” says Arms Unlimited.”It creates a versatile combination weapon system, capable of firing both 5.56mm rifle ammunition as well as the complete range of 37mm ammunitions.”

“A complete self-cocking firing mechanism, including barrel latch, trigger and positive safety lever is included in the receiver,” reads the description. This allows these M203 launchers to work completely independently, even if they are not attached to a rifle or carbine.

Both versions have a suggested sticker price of $3,500 but the company is listing them for $2,000 each. That may seem steep for a range toy but they will sell out fast just the same. For some collectors, that pony stamp is worth every penny.

Hopefully Colt can produce more batches of these down the line. Launchers like these are a must-have for Colt clone builders even at that price — it would be a shame if people miss a chance to pick one up just because Colt only makes one run.

Colt has been on the hunt for new ways to drum up business for a long time. Ideas like these are great and show that the company is willing to listen to customers.