Colt Model 1908 Pocket Hammerless 3.75″ 380 Auto Semi-Auto Pistol 1918 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,200
WOA#: WY240217TR005
Make: Colt
Model: 1908 Pocket Hammerless
Serial Number: 33138
Year of Manufacture: 1918 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .380 Auto
Action Type: Striker-Fired Semi-Auto Pistol with Removable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CT. U S A. / PATENTED APR.20,1897. DEC.22,1903.” and behind the slide serrations with a rampant colt logo. The right side of the slide is marked “COLT AUTOMATIC / CALIBRE .380 HAMMERLESS”. The left side of the frame is marked “33138”. Both grip panels are marked “COLT” with rampant logos. The magazine is Marked “CAL. 380 / COLT”.
Barrel Length: 3.75”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a half moon blade machined into the slide. The rear sight is a small “U” notch sight dovetailed into the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered hard rubber with molded Rampant Colts. The checkering has dulled slightly and they show minimal handling wear. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the grips are in Very Good Condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is well defined. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 85% of its metal finish. Both sides of the slide near the muzzle have lost their finish. There are scattered handling marks and surface scratches throughout the balance of the metal. The screw heads are sharp and the markings are clear. Overall this pistol is in Very Good condition for C&R considering its age.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly and the slide has very little play to the frame. This pistol has a slide locking safety, a grip safety and a heel style magazine release. 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 includes one Colt magazine in Good overall condition.
Our Assessment: The Colt Model 1908 Pocket Hammerless stands as a testament to Colt’s legacy of innovation and craftsmanship. Designed by John Moses Browning, this compact semi-automatic pistol was introduced in 1908 and remained in production until 1948. Renowned for its sleek and elegant design, the Model 1908 features a distinctive “hammerless” profile, with rounded edges and no external hammer, making it ideal for concealed carry. Chambered in .380 ACP, it strikes a balance between compactness and effectiveness, appealing to civilians. Constructed from blued steel, the Model 1908 exudes durability and reliability. Its all-metal construction ensures longevity, while checkered hard rubber grips provide a secure hold. The absence of an external hammer contributes to its snag-free design, enhancing its suitability for discreet carry in a pocket or purse. The pistol operates on a simple blowback mechanism, allowing for semi-automatic firing without the need for manual cocking. The fixed sights, comprising a blade front sight and notch rear sight, provide a basic yet functional aiming system for close-range engagements. Historically significant, the Colt Model 1908 Pocket Hammerless was one of the earliest successful semi-automatic pistols designed for concealed carry. Its popularity persisted for decades, and it remains highly regarded among collectors and enthusiasts today. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!! -R.L.
