Colt Model 1908 Vest Pocket Type I .25 ACP, 2 in Barrel, 1909 MFD, Early Pre-Magazine-Disconnect Micro Pistol
Early-production Colt Model 1908 Vest Pocket Type I chambered in .25 ACP, manufactured in 1909. This compact steel pistol features the pre-magazine-disconnect configuration, a 2-inch barrel, and a 6-round capacity. Designed by John M. Browning, it carries period-correct markings and grips that appeal to Colt collectors and Browning enthusiasts alike.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Rifling: Fair Rifling - Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: The pistol shows scratches and blemishes consistent with age and carry. Finish wear is visible throughout and typical for a 1909-manufactured example. The bore appears clean on visual inspection.
What’s Included
- Factory Colt magazine with 'CAL 25 / COLT' baseplate marking
- Additional unmarked steel magazine
This Model 1908 Vest Pocket is an early Type I example manufactured in 1909 (MFD. 1909). As a Type I, it predates the later magazine-disconnect feature, preserving the original operating configuration favored by many collectors of early Colt pocket pistols. Colt internally designated this model as the "Model N."
Built on a steel frame with a 2-inch barrel and an overall length of approximately 4.5 inches, this micro pistol was engineered for deep concealment. It is a striker-fired, single-action, blowback design chambered in .25 ACP with a 6-round capacity. The ejection port is on the right side.
Controls and sighting features include a manual thumb safety and a grip safety, rear slide serrations, and fixed sights comprising a small front blade and a longitudinal gutter sight groove along the top of the slide. These features are true to the early-production configuration.
Markings are correct for the period: the right side of the slide reads "COLT AUTOMATIC / CALIBRE 25," while the left side carries 1896/1897/1903 patent dates. The checkered hard-rubber grips show the COLT banner and Rampant Colt device. The included factory magazine base is marked "CAL 25 / COLT." Designed by John M. Browning and produced from 1908 to 1948 with approximately 420,705 made, the Model 1908 remains a significant Colt pocket pistol with enduring historical interest.