The Colt Pocket Nine, launched in 1999, offers you a compact 9mm semi-automatic pistol with a 3.5-inch barrel and stainless steel construction. You’ll find it weighs 20 ounces unloaded, features a 7-round single-stack magazine, and employs multiple safety features including a double-action/single-action trigger system. Its market values range from $522 to $995, with average prices around $694. This controversial design sparked patent disputes with Kahr and presents an intriguing chapter in Colt’s modern evolution.
Key Takeaways
- The Colt Pocket Nine is a semi-automatic 9mm pistol introduced in 1999, featuring stainless steel construction and a 3.5-inch barrel.
- It has a 7-round single stack magazine capacity and weighs 20 ounces unloaded with a polymer frame.
- Market values range from $522.77 to $995.00, with an average used market price of $694.81.
- The pistol features multiple safety features including double-action/single-action operation and a trigger pull weight of 5-7 pounds.
- Regular maintenance is required, with occasional feeding problems and component breakage addressed through proper care and spring replacement.
Description
The Colt Pocket Nine emerged in 1999 as a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9mm, marking a brief entry in Colt’s handgun lineup.
You’ll find this stainless steel handgun features a distinct barrel length with a controversial lockup design that sparked patent disputes with Kahr. While standard models command an average price of $694.81 in today’s market, customized versions with upgraded sights, grips, and triggers can fetch up to $775.
Price Range
Today’s market values for the Colt Pocket Nine span a considerable range, with recent sales data showing prices from $522.77 to $995.00. You’ll find that Colt’s Manufacturing’s pricing varies based on several factors:
| Condition | Value Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Average Used | Market Value | $694.81 |
| 80% Condition | Estimated | $451.63 |
| Private Party | Sale Price | $694.81 |
| Minimum Sale | Recent Data | $522.77 |
| Maximum Sale | Recent Data | $995.00 |
Specifications
The Colt Pocket Nine offers you a compact yet capable 9mm pistol platform weighing just 20 ounces unloaded. You’ll find its 3.5-inch barrel provides good accuracy while maintaining a concealable 6-inch overall length. The pistol’s 7-round magazine capacity balances size with defensive capability.
| Specification | Detail | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 20 oz | Unloaded |
| Barrel Length | 3.5 inches | Steel construction |
| Overall Length | 6 inches | Compact size |
| Caliber | 9mm | Parabellum |
| Magazine Capacity | 7 rounds | Single stack |
Weight
Weighing just 23.5 ounces unloaded, Colt’s Pocket Nine achieves its lightweight profile through a polymer frame construction. The lightweight design makes it an ideal choice for concealed carry, while maintaining accurate performance.
You’ll find the ergonomic grip enhances control despite its minimal weight. At 6.5 inches overall length and a 3.25-inch barrel, it’s perfectly balanced for everyday carry.
Barrel Length
Designed for optimal concealment, Colt’s Pocket Nine features a 3-inch barrel chambered in 9mm Luger. The barrel length aligns with typical pocket pistol dimensions, prioritizing concealability while maintaining practical accuracy.
You’ll find this compact barrel configuration affects ballistic performance, particularly in terms of velocity and recoil characteristics, though it remains suitable for its intended close-range defensive role.
Material Made Out Of
Manufactured from robust steel components, Colt’s Pocket Nine incorporates high-grade materials throughout its construction. You’ll find both the frame and slide are precision-crafted through advanced machining processes, utilizing steel metallurgy composition that ensures durability and reliability.
The heat treatment methods applied to these steel components contribute to the pistol’s overall strength while maintaining its modest 20-ounce unloaded weight.
Chambered In
The Colt Pocket Nine chambers the widely-used 9mm Luger cartridge, featuring a compact 3-inch barrel that balances concealability with practical performance. This ammunition choice provides you with extensive options in the 9mm cartridge family, from standard pressure to +P loads.
During its limited 1999 production run, the pistol’s barrel dimensions proved ideal for concealed carry while maintaining reliable function with various ammunition options.
Capacity
Built around its 9mm chambering, the Colt Pocket Nine features a 7-round single-stack magazine that contributes to its slim profile. The magazine size perfectly balances concealability with practical ammunition capacity.
You’ll find the standard magazine configuration accommodates 9mm Luger cartridges, offering reliable feeding characteristics typical of Colt’s single-stack magazine designs. This capacity suits the pistol’s intended role as a compact carry weapon.
Trigger Pull
When examining the Colt Pocket Nine’s trigger system, you’ll find a meticulously engineered pull weight ranging from 5 to 7 pounds. The trigger consistency is notable, delivering a smooth pull with a distinct take-up before reaching a clean break.
You’ll appreciate the trigger responsiveness, featuring a short, tactile reset that enhances your follow-up shot capability. The trigger feel remains reliable, though customization options are limited.
Safety?
Multiple safety features equip the Colt Pocket Nine, starting with its traditional double-action/single-action configuration that provides a longer, heavier first trigger pull as an inherent safety measure.
While specific safety mechanisms aren’t detailed in the provided facts, typical pistols in this class often incorporate a manual safety lever, trigger safety, and drop safety features to prevent accidental discharge during handling and carry.
Action
The Colt Pocket Nine operates as a semi-automatic pistol with a single-action trigger mechanism, chambered in the widely-used 9mm Luger cartridge. You’ll find the trigger responsiveness crisp and direct, though it lacks double action capability.
The lightweight alloy frame contributes to recoil reduction while cycling rounds through the 7+1 capacity system. This design prioritizes concealment and reliable function in a compact package.
Optic Ready?
Modern shooters seeking optics compatibility should note that the Colt Pocket Nine doesn’t feature an optics-ready design. The pistol’s slide lacks a mounting platform for red dots or other electronic sights, staying true to its concealment focused design.
With fixed iron sights and a single stack magazine configuration, the Pocket Nine prioritizes simplicity and slim dimensions over modern optics adaptability.
Review
While you’ll find the Colt Pocket Nine’s brief production run in 1999 created a collector’s item, its patent infringement issues with Kahr and subsequent market withdrawal highlight significant drawbacks.
The pistol’s loyal following speaks to its reliable performance and potential, particularly in customized versions by Scott McDougall that command premium prices in today’s market. Despite Colt’s shift toward government contracts limiting civilian production, the Pocket Nine’s current average resale value of $694.81 demonstrates its enduring appeal and dependability as a 9mm carry option.
Pros
Since entering the compact pistol market, Colt’s Pocket Nine offers compelling value for collectors and enthusiasts. You’ll find it delivers reliable concealed carry performance with user friendly controls. The stable pricing between $525-$905 makes it an attractive investment.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Compact Size | Easy concealment |
| Market Value | Strong resale potential |
| Collectibility | One-year production rarity |
The pistol’s versatile performance and customization options enhance its appeal, particularly for those seeking a unique carry piece with historical significance.
Cons
Despite its promising features, the Colt Pocket Nine suffered from significant drawbacks that limited its market success. Quality issues plagued the model, particularly with patent infringement on Kahr’s barrel lockup design. The CEO’s focus on government contracts detracted from civilian production, making it a one-year wonder model.
| Issue | Impact | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Quality Control | Patent Infringement | Legal Problems |
| Production Focus | Government Priority | Limited Civilian Units |
| Market Presence | Brief Availability | Collector Status |
| Value Retention | Price Decline | Investment Risk |
Reliability
How reliable was the Colt Pocket Nine in real-world conditions? The pistol demonstrated generally consistent performance when properly maintained.
You’ll find it functions reliably with quality magazines and ammunition, though some users reported trigger maintenance issues and ammo sensitivity. While occasional component breakage and feeding problems occurred, most owners achieved dependable operation through proper care, particularly with regular recoil spring replacement and maintenance routines.
Similar Models
Several variants of Colt pistols emerged to serve different market segments and user preferences. You’ll find the All American Model 2000 in both standard and aluminum frame versions, ideal for concealed carry with compatible magazines and accessories.
The Double Eagle series offers both Combat Commander and Officers Lightweight variants in .45 ACP, while the more compact Pony Series 90 provides a 9mm option.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
Competitive manufacturers offer several notable alternatives to Colt’s pocket pistol lineup. For concealed carry enthusiasts, the Sig Sauer P238 and Kel-Tec P3AT provide .380 ACP options, while the Kahr PM9 offers 9mm power in a pocket carry format.
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 380 and Ruger LCP II round out the popular choices for those seeking a reliable backup weapon in a compact package.
Maintenance
Like any quality firearm, the Colt Pocket Nine’s longevity depends on proper maintenance protocols. Your cleaning regimen should include regular disassembly, solvent application, and lubrication of key components.
Preventive measures, such as corrosion-resistant finishes, help protect against rust. When troubleshooting issues, you’ll need to inspect critical parts like the firing pin, extractor, and magazine spring for signs of wear.
History
During a period of market uncertainty in 1999, Colt introduced the Pocket Nine as their entry into the compact 9mm pistol segment. The pistol’s market performance was hampered by design flaws that infringed on Kahr’s barrel lockup patent.
Manufacturing challenges emerged as Colt’s leadership prioritized government contracts over civilian production. These issues led to the Pocket Nine’s brief production run, making it a “one-year wonder” in Colt’s lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Colt Pocket Nines Were Made?
You won’t find exact production numbers for the Pocket Nine, as Colt hasn’t released official figures. While it’s considered a low-production firearm due to its single-year manufacturing run in 1999, its historical significance stems from being a “one-year wonder” in Colt’s lineup.
The compact size specifications made it appealing for concealed carry, but patent disputes with Kahr and Colt’s focus on government contracts likely limited civilian production substantially.
What Gun Is the Pretty Boy’s Pocket Pistol?
Like a hidden gem in a dusty saloon, the Pretty Boy’s Pocket Pistol refers to the Colt 1903 Pocket Hammerless .32 ACP that infamous gangster Charles “Pretty Boy” Floyd carried.
You’ll find its features include a sleek, concealed hammer design and 8-round magazine capacity. The pistol’s craftsmanship showcases Colt’s early 20th-century innovation, while its historical significance is tied to the gangster era of the 1930s when Floyd used it during his crime spree.
What Is the Model 1849 Colt Pocket?
You’ll find the Model 1849 Colt Pocket was a groundbreaking single-action revolver that dominated the market from 1849 to 1873. When you examine its specifications, you’ll notice the .31 caliber rimfire design and 4-inch barrel that made it ideal for concealed carry.
The trigger mechanism featured Colt’s innovative single-action system, requiring manual cocking before each shot. You’re looking at one of Colt’s most successful designs, with over 330,000 units produced during its 24-year run.
Is There a 9mm Colt?
Yes, you’ll find several 9mm offerings from Colt. While their most famous models were traditionally in .45 ACP, Colt’s history with 9mm caliber includes the Commander series and modern M1911 variants.
In 1999, they briefly produced the Pocket Nine, a compact 9mm pistol that followed Colt’s pocket pistol history. However, this design faced patent issues with Kahr and was only manufactured for one year, making it a rare collector’s item today.
Conclusion
You’ll find the Colt Pocket Nine stands as a steadfast companion in the lineage of compact 9mm pistols, like a bridge between classic craftsmanship and modern engineering. Since its introduction, it’s proven itself as reliable as a Swiss timepiece, maintaining Colt’s century-old reputation for quality. Whether you’re a collector or practical shooter, you’re investing in a piece of firearms evolution that marries traditional design with contemporary functionality.
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