Selected Handgun Detail

Colt
Model 1903
Colt Pistol 1903 .32 Auto Variant-2
Scale To:
Gun Dimensions Width:No Data
Length:6.75-in Height:No Data
Barrel:3.75-in Weight:24-oz
Variant 2 of 5
Gun Rankings
  • Power Factor (71 grain bullet)63403
  • Recoil Factor (71 grain bullet)1.14 ft-lb
  • Total Capacity9 rounds
  • ConcealabilityGood
  • Defense Factor50%
Gun Specifications
Type:Pistol
Caliber:.32 Auto
Action:blowback operated semi-auto
Trigger:single-action (SA)
Safety:grip safety, manual thumb safety
Magazine:8-round
Frame:blued finish steel
Grip:black checkered rubber
Sights:fixed blade and notch
Notes:Type II
Manufacturer
Colt's Manufacturing Company, LLC
More Info
About the Gun

Compact blowback operated hidden-hammer fired pistol. Five types manufactured between 1903 and 1945. Type I models, were manufactured from 1903 to 1908, and have a 4-inch barrel and a barrel bushing. Type II through Type V models were manufactured from 1909 to 1945 and have a 3.75-inch barrel. Types specified have various engineering changes such as dropping the barrel bushing, adding a magazine disconnect safety, and changing from hard rubber grips to checkered walnut grips.

Production

Production of this firearm occurred between 1908 and 1927, during the period associated with its second design variation. This timeframe reflects the manufacturing span for models featuring the specific design elements of that era.

Market value
Last updated: 7/3/2025

The MSRP for a new model is approximately $1,200, though they are no longer in production. Current market value for a used one in 95% condition is around $600-$800, depending on specific historical and collector interest.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge: .32 Automatic
Alias: 7.65 mm Browning
More Info
Ballistics for This Gun
Selected Bullet Mass:71 grains
MV:893 ft/sec ME:126 ft-lbs
Analysis

This early 20th-century pocket pistol in a modest autoloading caliber offers a compact design that suits concealed carry or discreet use. Its accuracy is commendable for a firearm of its era, delivering consistent performance at close to moderate ranges. The ergonomics are well-suited for smaller hands, with a grip that aligns naturally for intuitive pointing. Reliability is generally solid when maintained properly, though it demands regular cleaning to prevent malfunctions due to its tight tolerances. On the downside, sourcing replacement parts can be a challenge, often requiring specialized knowledge or custom work. Maintenance may also be cumbersome for less experienced users due to the design’s intricacies. The trigger pull is crisp but somewhat heavy, which might affect precision for some shooters. Felt recoil is mild, making it manageable for most, though the small frame can transmit more vibration than larger handguns.

User Rating
3 User Ratings
4 User Comments
User Comments

5 of 5 Stars
True “Golden Oldies”
By JKnicker on 25 May 2025
I have several of the Colt Hammerless pistols. Aside from a little harder field strip, they are comfortable to hold, smooth running, and very accurate. Mine have fired many different brands of cartridges, all with no issues.


5 of 5 Stars
Great design & a joy to shoot
By Diecapsule78 on 06 Apr 2020
This was passed down to me by my mother in law with original box & accessories. In great shape & fires like a new pistol although I've only actually taken it out to test when I first received it. Love it!


5 of 5 Stars
Colt
By Tango_Charli on 30 Sep 2019
Very nice gun it is.


5 of 5 Stars
Colt 32 Acp
By Tango_Charli on 11 Apr 2018
Nice Pistol It is.