How original am I??

[gregc78]

Not sure here. Thought it looked in very good condition for a 1910 model, glad it does but am not hopeful the finish has not been redone. I would maybe like to improve the sites "if" this is a reblued gun but before I make an unrepairable mistake I would like some opinions from some who know better than I - that would be everyone!!lol. Someone did somthing to the R side grip, for what reason I do not know but someday I hope to replace. If this is a good collector piece, I will keep it as such even though I am not much of a collector but I do respect the vintage guns and enjoy them. Some hint of a possible value on my 1903 would be great too if some are so inclined to let me know I would appreciate it.

Have a great New Year!
Greg2012-01-01_13-31-02_311.jpg2012-01-01_13-30-52_730.jpg2012-01-01_13-30-25_142.jpg2012-01-01_13-31-27_912.jpg2012-01-01_13-31-52_268.jpg

[Malysh]

Hi Greg, welcome to Colt Forum!

I'm sorry to say there's no doubt the your Mod M has been refinished. I expect the stocks are original but I am not an expert on the early Colt semi auto pistols. Original period stocks of the era are scarce and expensive but there are companies that make reproductions.

Still, I certainly wouldn't mind owning that gun myself

[twaits]

Also I think the slide is a replacement from an earlier gun. You are correct that the serial number dates it to around 1910 but I'm almost certain the slide with the barrel bushing was gone by that time. I think this was probably pieced together from different guns and refinished. Nice little shooter though.

Edit: Yup, should be a Type III by 1910
Colt Pistols and Revolvers for Firearms Collectors - Model 1903 .32 ACP & Model 1908 .380 ACP Pocket Hammerless Production Dates

[gregc78]

Thanks for the help guys, I was pretty sure this was redone. Still not sure what my intentions are for the gun but will take this all into consideration when making my choices. Thanks for the insight, Greg

[Collects]

Greg, welcome to Coltforum.

Your pistol has been nicely reblued.

[ei8ht]

Greg,
after looking closely at your pictures and checking the serial number against Brunners your pistol
is a type II. A Short Slide Barrel Bushing Pocket Hammerless. I belive it to be a correct slide to frame match.
The Grips are correct for the time period as well. Yes it has been refinished. You don't see to many type II's
so I would think it would be a keeper.

Jim

[gregc78]

She shot well today so think I will hang onto this one, Thanks everyone

Greg

[Malysh]

Good deal, Greg!
A great classic pistol that's reliable and very easy on the eyes. One of these days I'm going to get a late .380
If I can stop buying Colt snubbys for awhile......

[twaits]

Greg,
after looking closely at your pictures and checking the serial number against Brunners your pistol
is a type II. A Short Slide Barrel Bushing Pocket Hammerless. I belive it to be a correct slide to frame match.
The Grips are correct for the time period as well. Yes it has been refinished. You don't see to many type II's
so I would think it would be a keeper.

Jim

Interesting! I was not aware of this variation. I was going by Sam Liskers information. I don't have the Brunner book. I may have to get this book. Thanks for the clarification.
I didn't realize that there were barrel bushing 1903s made as late as 1910

[Oyeboten]

Or in this instance, Barrel Bushing M1908s ( made as late as 1910 or so )


I have wanted one ( early Colt .380 with the slightly longer Slide and Barrel Bushing ) for such a long time, but the only times I have found one, price for condition was not appealing.