Trigger and weight and size
BUZSAW,
I have a 1903 in good shape and it is a very good shooter. I would have no problem with using it for self defense. It even feeds hollow points without any problems (the reason I would use it).
If you were going to carry it in a holster, like an ASKINS Avenger type or PANCAKE style holser, the 1903 would be a very good carry gun. It handles well and I find it to be an accurate shooter that will feed hollow points without a problem, at least in my gun.
The problems with the 1903 for concealed, pocket carry are:
WEIGHT--It is heavy, especially for a .32ACP. My PPK weighs at least 5 ounces less. The 1903 kicks less and should not bite large hands like the PPK.
SIZE--It is big for a .32ACP. Compare it with a PPK or BERETTA TOMCAT or the even smaller micro guns like the NAA Guardian. I can drop any of the above mentioned into a pocket holster, it would be difficult with the 1903.
Also, many 9m.m. pistols, like the KAHR have the same length and height, some even less.
TRIGGER-SAFETY--I call this one problem. The trigger on my 1903 is smooth and easy to shoot. The bad news is that if I carried the gun, it would have to be with an empty chamber, which makes it a two handed proposition.
Yes, the 1903 has a very well placed safety, but single action autoes are a niche market. Aside from the 1911's and the occasional BROWNING Hi-Power, there are only a few models for carry, like the KIMBER Solo, COLT Mustang and SIG 238.
Most pocket pistols have either a double/single action or double action only trigger. A small safety is hard to without a lot of practice and many of the 1903's have a weak safety spring (my experience with handling several of them).
To bring the 1903 back"
SIZE--shorten barrel and slide to @ 3 1/3 or 3 1/4 inch to reduce overall length and shorten the grip by 1 round. This would give a lighter, more concealable picture.
TRIGGER--Adopt a GLOCK style safe trigger or double action only mechanish and eliminate the thumb safety, but keep the grip safety, if affordable.
WEIGHT--Aluminum frame, using one of the high strength alloys might allow the same trim dimensions and good handling with a lighter carry gun.
The 1903 has many good traights. It handles well and is an instictive shooter. It is very slim and the concealled hammer is a much better design for a pocket pistol than an exposed one on the COLT Mustang or SIG 238. The smooth, rounded read of the slide does not have anything to hang up on when coming out of a pocket.
LAST, BUT NOT LEAST IS THE FACT THAT THE COLT 1908 WAS THE SAME GUN AS THE 1903, BUT IN THE MUCH MORE POWERFUL AND POPULAR .380ACP ROUND.
Personally, if they would bring in back with a lightweight frame, I would probably buy one as it is now.
OH, MAGS COST WAY TO MUCH. I HAVE SEEN THEM FOR SALE AT $120.00 EACH.
Have fun shooting it.
Jim
