#150 • Colt Model 1908 Vest Pocket Semi-Automatic Pistol - .25 ACP

Part of WINTER SPORTSMAN CONSIGNMENT AUCTION MONDAY, DECEMBER 7TH 6:30PM (live auction by Edinburg Auction Sales. Inc. )

Status: Available

Category: FIREARMS

Colt | Model 1908 Vest Pocket | .25 ACP | Semi-Automatic Pistol The Colt Model 1908 Vest Pocket is a compact semi-automatic pistol designed by legendary firearms inventor John Moses Browning. Introduced in 1908, the pistol was developed as a small, easily concealed personal-defense handgun during an era when semi-automatic pistols were rapidly gaining popularity. Its compact dimensions and enclosed firing mechanism made it particularly suitable for discreet carry. Manufactured by Colt's Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company in Hartford, Connecticut, the Model 1908 was chambered in .25 ACP (6.35mm Browning) and utilized a simple blowback operating system. The pistol features a concealed striker, grip safety, manual thumb safety, and detachable six-round magazine. Its design was based on Browning's earlier European pocket pistol manufactured by Fabrique Nationale. The Colt Vest Pocket remained in production from 1908 until 1948, with more than 400,000 examples manufactured. These pistols were offered in both blued and nickel-plated finishes and became popular among civilians seeking a compact personal-defense firearm. Serial number 325560 dates this example to approximately 1923, placing it within Colt's early commercial production period. The pistol appears to have originally featured a blued finish, although extensive exterior finish loss has left much of the metal with a dull gray appearance. Firearm Specs Manufacturer: Colt's Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company Model: 1908 Vest Pocket Caliber: .25 ACP / 6.35mm Browning Action: Single-Action, Striker-Fired Semi-Automatic Barrel Length: 2" Finish: Originally Blued; Extensive Finish Loss Stock/Grip: Rampant Colt Vulcanite grips Capacity: 6+1 Rounds Sights: Fixed Front Sight / Integral Rear Sight Groove Year of Manufacture: 1923 Frame: Steel Slide: Steel Operating System: Simple Blowback Magazine Type: Detachable Single-Stack Box Magazine Safety: Manual Thumb Safety, Grip Safety, and Magazine Disconnect Country of Manufacture: USA Serial Number 325560 Condition Fair condition. The pistol exhibits extensive exterior finish wear, with the majority of the presumed original bluing worn away, leaving much of the metal with a dull gray appearance. Some remaining discoloration and surface wear are consistent with the firearm's age and previous use. The bore is bright and shiny, and the pistol functions mechanically. Extras & Features One magazine A 1923-production Colt Model 1908 Vest Pocket, representing an early example of John Browning's influential pocket-pistol design. Its age, Colt heritage, and historical significance make it an interesting example for collectors of early American semi-automatic handguns.