Small Arms of WWI Primer 057: Belgian Contract Colt 1903

Published on August 15, 2017
Duration: 33:00

This guide details the disassembly of the Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless, a John Browning design. It covers the steps for field stripping the pistol and provides insights into its internal blowback mechanism and internal hammer. The video highlights the evolution of the design through its Type I, II, and III variations.

Quick Summary

The Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless, a John Browning design, is a compact .32 ACP pistol. It operates via blowback with an internal hammer and a unique integrated flat spring system. Belgian contract models feature specific acceptance marks, produced during WWI when FN was occupied.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Colt 1903
  2. 01:30Historical Context: Browning, FN, and Colt
  3. 04:22Development of the Pocket Hammerless
  4. 07:31Design Evolution: Type I to Type III
  5. 13:14Internal Mechanism Animation
  6. 14:54Range Testing and Ergonomics
  7. 18:11The Belgian Contract

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless?

The Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless, also known as the Model M, is a compact semi-automatic pistol designed by John Browning. It's a scaled-down version of the FN Model 1903, intended for the commercial pocket pistol market and chambered in .32 ACP.

What distinguishes the Belgian contract Colt 1903 pistols?

Belgian contract Colt 1903 pistols, produced during WWI for the Belgian government-in-exile, are identifiable by a specific 'A' in a diamond acceptance marking on the frame and fall within a particular serial number range (165,854-241,966).

How does the Colt 1903's internal mechanism work?

The Colt 1903 operates on a blowback system and features an internal hammer. A unique flat spring system within the pistol controls multiple functions, including the safety, sear, trigger, and magazine catch, contributing to its compact design.

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