Shooting the New Colt 1903

Published on May 28, 2015
Duration: 2:19

This video reviews the modern production of the Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless pistol, also known as the Model M. The presenter highlights its historical significance, design by John Moses Browning, and its blowback operation. Key features discussed include the manual safety's dual function as a cocking indicator, the grip safety, and the Parkerized finish mimicking general officers' pistols. While acknowledging its nostalgic appeal and quality craftsmanship, the review points out the abysmal sights and a 100-year-old trigger as drawbacks, along with a mechanical note about the safety blocking the sear rather than the firing pin.

Quick Summary

The Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless (Model M) is a historic semi-automatic pistol designed by John Moses Browning, chambered in 32 ACP. Modern reproductions feature blowback operation, a dual-function manual safety, grip safety, and a Parkerized finish. While praised for its heritage and craftsmanship, it has 'abysmal' sights and a dated trigger mechanism.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction
  2. 00:10Introducing the Colt 1903
  3. 00:21Original 1903 Specifications
  4. 00:26Blowback Operation
  5. 00:30Manual Safety Function
  6. 00:44Slide Hold Open
  7. 00:46Grip Safety
  8. 00:52Modern Production Details
  9. 01:03Parkerized Finish and General Officers Pistol Style
  10. 01:12Price and Quality
  11. 01:17Grips and Aesthetics
  12. 01:27Magazine Release
  13. 01:29Sights and Trigger
  14. 01:38Shooting Impressions (32 ACP)
  15. 01:43Mechanical Drawbacks of 1903/1908
  16. 02:01Colt's Reintroduction and Heritage
  17. 02:08Further Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless pistol?

The Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless, also known as the Model M, is a semi-automatic pistol designed by John Moses Browning. This video reviews a modern production version of this historically significant firearm, originally chambered in 32 ACP.

What are the key features of the Colt 1903?

Key features include its blowback operation, a manual safety on the left side that also acts as a cocking indicator, a grip safety, and a Parkerized finish. The modern version comes with walnut grips and is a genuine Colt product.

What are the drawbacks of the Colt 1903?

The primary drawbacks mentioned are the 'abysmal' sights and a '100-year-old trigger'. Mechanically, the safety blocks the sear, not the firing pin, which is a historical reason it's not widely carried today.

How much does the modern Colt 1903 cost?

The modern production of the Colt 1903 pistol is estimated to cost around $1,350 for the base model. The presenter notes that it is well-done for its price point.

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