From the Vault: 1903 Colt Pocket Hammer Pistol

Published on February 6, 2018
Duration: 5:19

This video provides an in-depth look at the 1903 Colt Pocket Hammer pistol, chambered in .38 Automatic. It highlights the pistol's design origins, its differentiation from the smaller .32 Pocket model, and its historical context, including its use in military trials and its popularity with the civilian market. The presenter, Steve from Brownells, emphasizes the pistol's elegant feel, its John Browning design, and its role as a precursor to the iconic 1911, while also cautioning against using higher-pressure ammunition like the .38 Super in this model due to its less robust design.

Quick Summary

The 1903 Colt Pocket Hammer pistol, a John Browning design, was produced from 1903-1920s in .38 Automatic. It's a collectible firearm and a precursor to the 1911, but crucially, should NOT be fired with .38 Super ammunition due to its design limitations and potential for dangerous failure.

Chapters

  1. 00:14Introduction to 'From the Vault' Series
  2. 00:39Introducing the 1903 Colt Pocket Hammer
  3. 00:47Distinguishing from the .32 Pocket Model
  4. 00:53Design Origins and Military Trials
  5. 01:07Pocket Pistol Design: Slick but Lacking Controls
  6. 01:23Civilian Market Success and Production Years
  7. 01:32The .38 Automatic Cartridge (.38 ACP)
  8. 01:43Warning: Do Not Use .38 Super
  9. 02:05Unusual Wedge Disassembly Mechanism
  10. 02:37Parallel Ruler Barrel System
  11. 02:53Complicated Disassembly and Maintenance
  12. 03:05Military Needs for Simpler Maintenance
  13. 03:10Failed .41 Caliber Experiment
  14. 03:25Elegant Feel and John Browning Design
  15. 03:43Significance as a 1911 Precursor
  16. 04:14Evolution to .45 ACP and the 1905 Model
  17. 04:30Development of 1911 Features
  18. 04:44Conclusion: A Collectible Piece of History
  19. 04:55Viewer Suggestions for Future 'From the Vault' Episodes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 1903 Colt Pocket Hammer pistol?

The 1903 Colt Pocket Hammer is a semi-automatic pistol designed by John Browning and produced by Colt from 1903 to the 1920s. It was chambered in .38 Automatic and was popular with the civilian market, notable for its slick design and role as a precursor to the 1911.

Why should you not use .38 Super in a 1903 Colt Pocket Hammer?

You should not use .38 Super in a 1903 Colt Pocket Hammer because the pistol's design is not robust enough to handle the higher pressures of this cartridge. While it may chamber, firing .38 Super could lead to a dangerous failure of the firearm.

What made the 1903 Colt Pocket Hammer different from the .32 Pocket model?

The 1903 Colt Pocket Hammer was distinguished by its external hammer, whereas the .32 Pocket model featured a concealed hammer. The 'Pocket Hammer' designation was used to differentiate these two models.

What is the 'parallel ruler system' mentioned in relation to the 1903 Colt?

The 'parallel ruler system' refers to the barrel lockup mechanism used in the 1903 Colt and later the 1911. It involves the barrel moving up and down front and back, utilizing two lengths on the barrel for its operation, which is a more complex system than some other designs.

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