GunsAmerica

Quick Look

The Colt 1908 Vest Pocket is a compact semi-automatic pistol introduced in 1908 by Colt for concealed carry. Designed by John Browning, it emphasized pocket-sized discretion and ease of use. Though discontinued, it remains popular among collectors and early 20th-century firearm enthusiasts.

Why It's a Top Choice

Iconic John Browning design for concealed carry
High craftsmanship from early 20th-century Colt
Slim, easily concealable 6-round profile
Simple blowback action ensures reliability
Historical appeal among vintage arms collectors

Key Variants

Colt 1908 Vest Pocket Nickel

A bright nickel finish version preferred for elegant concealed carry or presentation use.

Colt 1908 Vest Pocket Blued

The standard blued steel model widely issued and carried pre-WWII.

Colt 1908 Vest Pocket Factory Pearl Grips

A factory upgrade variant featuring decorative mother-of-pearl grips for collectors.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	Colt 1908 Vest Pocket	Browning Baby	FN Model 1906
MSRP	Discontinued	Discontinued	Discontinued
Capacity / Size	6+1 / Pocket	6+1 / Pocket	6+1 / Pocket
Weight	~13 oz	~10 oz	~13 oz
Optics-Ready	No	No	No
Trigger Type	Single-action	Single-action	Single-action
Notable Pro	Classic American build quality	Ultra lightweight profile	Earliest vest pocket design
Notable Con	.25 ACP low stopping power	Limited grip area	Fewer finish options

Best Use Cases

Vintage concealed carry
Historical handgun collections
Display and antique gun shows
Training or teaching handgun mechanics

FAQs

What is the caliber of the Colt 1908 Vest Pocket?

It fires the .25 ACP (6.35mm Browning) cartridge, developed for compact pocket pistols.

How does the Colt 1908 differ from the FN 1906?

The Colt has a manual safety lever in addition to the grip safety, which the FN lacks.

Can I carry a Colt 1908 Vest Pocket today?

Yes, where permitted by law, but its age, caliber, and parts scarcity limit practical use.

COLT 1908 VEST POCKET for Sale