Make: Colt

Model: 1908 Vest Pocket

Serial Number: 85456

Year of Manufacture: 1913

Caliber: .25 ACP

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Single Action, Internal Hammer, Fed by Detachable Magazine

Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A. / PAT’D AUG.25.1896. APR.20.1897. DEC.22.1903.” The right side of the slide is marked “COLT AUTOMATIC CALIBRE .25” with the Colt rampant horse logo behind the serrations. The left side of the frame is marked with the serial number “85456” above the trigger guard.

Barrel Length: 2”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a small rounded blade integral to the slide. The rear sight is a groove milled into the top of the slide.

Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered hard rubber with the Colt logo and "COLT" banner. They show minor handling marks but remain well-defined, with sharp checkering and no cracks or chips. The grips rate in Very Good condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: One original 6-round .25 ACP magazine in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued with Case Color Controls

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with strong rifling. There is light fouling, but no significant erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8.5/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains over 90% of its original blued finish. There is pitting on the top of the slide in the trough and a small spot on the extractor, but the bluing remains strong overall. The fire-blued screws retain their vivid color, and the rear face of the grip safety has worn to a natural "in-the-white" patina, showing honest wear from handling. The markings remain crisp and clear, and the pistol retains its classic Colt deep blue finish. Overall, this pistol rates in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Colt Model 1908 Vest Pocket is a classic, small-framed semi-automatic pistol designed by John Browning and introduced by Colt in 1908. Chambered in .25 ACP, this compact pistol was a popular choice for concealed carry throughout the early 20th century, often carried in a vest or coat pocket—hence its name.

This 1913-manufactured example retains over 90% of its original finish, making it a well-preserved early production model. While pitting is present on the slide trough and extractor, the bluing remains strong overall, and the fire-blued accents on the screws are still vibrant. The grips remain in Very Good condition, and the bore is sharp with minimal fouling.

With its compact size, solid mechanics, and original finish, this 1908 Vest Pocket would still make a great pocket carry pistol. For Colt collectors, vintage handgun enthusiasts, or those looking for a functional piece of early 20th-century firearm history, this Colt Vest Pocket .25 ACP is a fantastic find.