Colt Model 1908 Pocket Hammerless 380 ACP 3 3/4” Semi-Automatic Pistol 1932
SOLD FOR: $2,326.00
LSB#: WY250115RR002
Make: Colt
Model: 1908 Type IV Pocket Hammerless
Serial Number: 111511
Year of Manufacture: 1932 (C&R Eligible)
Caliber: .380 ACP
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto Pistol with Removable Magazine
Barrel Length: 3 3/4”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a round blade fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a round-top square notch dovetailed into the rear of the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with silver-colored Colt medallions. The grips have minor handling wear with only a few scattered minor marks. Verdigris is forming on the escutcheons. The checkering is well-defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine-Plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is light stubborn fouling in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. The finish is lightly thinning at the rear edges of the slide. There are no notable nicks or scratches, and the action shows very minor operational wear. The screw head is sharp, and the markings are clear. All matching numbers, including inside the slide. Overall, this handgun rates in Fine-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, and the slide is tight to the frame. It has a grip safety, a magazine disconnect, and a manual safety. The safety can be used to lock the slide back. 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 7-round .380 ACP magazine, a hinge-lid cardboard Colt box with the serial number hand-written on the bottom, a manual, and a contemporary box of ammunition. The box has some tatters and is missing one of the lid lips. The included ammunition is a complete contemporary box marked “Remington Arms Union Metallic Cartridge Co.” containing 50 rounds of .380 Colt Auto Hammerless Smokeless Central Fire Cartridges with Soft Point Bullets.
Our Assessment: The Colt Model 1908 Pocket Hammerless is one of John Browning’s most iconic designs, offering a sleek, compact, and reliable pistol for concealed carry and law enforcement use. Following the success of the Model 1903, the 1908 variant introduced the .380 ACP chambering, making it a preferred option for those seeking more stopping power in a small package. Despite the name “Hammerless,” this pistol does have a hammer, but it is concealed within the slide, allowing for a snag-free draw from a pocket or holster.
This particular example was manufactured in 1932 and remains in Fine-plus condition, retaining approximately 98% of its original blued finish. The all-matching serial numbers, well-preserved grips, and bright bore indicate that this pistol saw little use. It comes with a period-correct Colt box, though it has some wear and is missing one of the lid lips, along with a vintage Remington ammunition box, making it a desirable collector’s package.
Highly sought after by Colt collectors, law enforcement historians, and enthusiasts of early semi-automatic pistols, this Model 1908 is an exceptional find. Whether you are looking to expand your collection or own a beautiful example of early 20th-century American craftsmanship, this Colt 1908 is a fantastic acquisition. So bid high and bid firm. Please take a look at the condition in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
