Summary

Colt Pocket Model 1903 automatic pistol, concealed hammer model, 3rd type, cal. .32 in., rifled round barrel 90 mm (3 3/4 in.) long without barrel bushing encased in slide, bladed front sight.

Made by Colt's Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Co, Hartford, Connecticut, serial number 208447, 1917.

Physical Description

Eight shot magazine located in butt, chequered ebonite grips with Colt rampant horse logo and the word 'COLT' framed betwen two horizontal lines. Crudely marked on frame R.H. side 'DP. 4214' Good original blueing retained on all metal components, with a yellowing residue mark on frame R.H.side above grip.

Significance

The 1903 Pocket model was the first of Colt's concealed hammer, or hammerless, pistols. Several new features appeared on this model, including the automatic safety at the rear of the grip which prevented the trigger being depressed unless the safety is compressed. Likewise, the model featured a 'slide lock' on the L.H.side of the frame and slide, allowing the slide to be locked in place when the hammer was cocked. The model was produced in three sub-types, the first with a 4 in. barrel with bushings; the second with a reduced 3 3/4 in. barrel with bushing and third type - as per this item - with a 3 3/4 in barrel without bushings. The serial number range for this third type is 105,050 to 572,215 when the model ceased production in 1945.

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