Make: Colt
Model: 1908 Vest Pocket
Serial Number: 364073
Year of Manufacture: 1927
Caliber: .25 ACP
Action Type: Striker-Fired Semi-Auto Pistol with Removable Magazine
Barrel Length: 2"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a tiny blade that sits in the front of the groove that runs the length of the slide. The rear sight is a tiny square notch in the back of the groove. The groove has fine serrations for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with silver-colored Colt medallions at their tops. The grips have minor handling wear with only a few scattered light marks. There is some verdigris at the grip screw escutcheons. The checkering is well defined, generally sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine-Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, Case Color Controls
Finish Originality: Original, the slide is serial matching.
Bore Condition: The bore is gray with well defined rifling. There is erosion and stubborn fouling scattered through the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 6+/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There is some scattered very minor surface oxidation. The action shows faint operational wear. The case color on the grip safety is slightly muted, otherwise the case color is still quite strong and bright. There are a few scattered minor marks. The screw head is tool marked with a strong slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a maroon cardboard one-piece hinge-lid box with the serial hand-written on the bottom, model-matching label, manual, zipper case and a total of two 6-round magazines, one two-tone Colt and the other Triple K.
Our Assessment: The Model 1908 Vest Pocket is a compact, hammerless, striker-fired, semi-automatic single action pistol. Manufactured by the Colt's Manufacturing Company from 1908 to 1948, it was marketed as a small concealable firearm, which could be easily tucked into a gentleman's vest pocket for unobtrusive carry. Created by famed firearms designer John Moses Browning, the Model 1908 followed Browning’s earlier European version, the FN Model 1906. This example is in just about as good condition as we have seen. About 96% of its metal finish remains with some minor oxidation and vibrant case color in the controls. The bore shows erosion consistent with the use of corrosive primers, but the mechanics are strong. It even comes with its original box! This is a cute little pistol that can be carried just about anywhere, and is perfect for concealed carry or to round out an early Colt semi-automatic collection. Please see our photos and good luck!
