Make: Colt

Model: 1908 Vest Pocket

Serial Number: 322278

Year of Manufacture: 1923

Caliber: .25 A.C.P. (6.35mm Browning)

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 “U” 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 black hard rubber panels with "COLT" on banner across the top and a rampant at the bottom. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only a few small marks. The left panel shows minor discoloration, just starting to go to a brownish color. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Nickel

Finish Originality: Original, the slide is serial-matching.

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is some minor erosion and stubborn copper fouling in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. The finish is strong throughout with some scattered minor scuffs, tiny nicks and swirls. There are some small, but more notable marks at the front edge of the left grip panel on the frame. The action shows minor operational wear. The screw head is lightly tool marked with a strong slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Very Good-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 single six round nickel magazine.

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 Very Good-Fine condition with about 96% of its desirable nickel finish remaining. The bore is in good shape, showing more minor erosion than is common for these pistols in our experience. 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!