Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in collectible and practical firearms. The Colt Junior .25 ACP Police Trade-In Pocket Pistol (Mag Not is a compact, classic Colt firearm with a history of law enforcement service. Its small size and .25 ACP chambering make it a discreet option. Available now for $499.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Colt Junior .25 ACP?
| Product Type | Handgun |
|---|---|
| Material | Steel frame and slide |
| Manufacturing | Colt’s Manufacturing Company |
| Finish | Blued (may show wear from police trade-in status) |
| Hardness/Quality | Robust construction typical of Colt firearms |
| Compatibility | .25 ACP ammunition, Colt Junior magazines |
| Installation/Usage | Semi-automatic, fixed sights |
| Weight | Approx. 13 oz (unloaded) |
| Dimensions | Overall Length: 4.5 inches; Barrel Length: 2.25 inches |
| Country of Origin | USA (original design), manufactured under license (often by Astra in Spain for the Junior line) |
| Condition | Police Trade-In (Good to Very Good, expect cosmetic wear) |
| SKU | COLT-JUNIOR-25ACP-PTI |
What are the key features of this Colt Junior?
- Compact Design: The Colt Junior .25 ACP is designed for deep concealment, fitting easily into a pocket or small holster. Its diminutive size was a primary selling point for plainclothes officers and those needing a backup gun.
- Police Trade-In History: Each of these firearms carries a unique history, having been in service with law enforcement agencies. This often means they have been well-maintained mechanically, though they may show external signs of use.
- Colt Branding: Despite being manufactured under license by Astra in Spain for much of its production run, these pistols bear the iconic Colt name, adding to their collector appeal and recognition. They represent a specific era of Colt’s handgun offerings.
- .25 ACP Chambering: While not a powerhouse cartridge, the .25 ACP is known for its small size and relatively low recoil, making it suitable for a very small pistol. It’s a classic pocket pistol caliber.
- Simple Operation: Featuring a blowback action and a simple safety mechanism, the Colt Junior is straightforward in its design and function. This simplicity contributes to its reliability in a compact package.
- Fixed Sights: Equipped with basic fixed sights, this pistol is designed for close-range engagements, consistent with its role as a last-ditch defensive firearm.
- Classic Appeal: For collectors and enthusiasts, the Colt Junior represents a piece of firearms history, often sought after for its design and association with the Colt brand.
Who is this pistol for?
Buy it if:
- ✅ You are a collector of classic Colt firearms or historical police trade-ins.
- ✅ You appreciate the craftsmanship and design of vintage pocket pistols.
- ✅ You need a very small, discreet firearm for deep concealment where other options are too large.
- ✅ You are looking for a piece of history with a story behind it.
- ✅ You understand the limitations of the .25 ACP cartridge and its role in a defensive firearm.
Skip it if:
- ❌ You are looking for a primary carry firearm with modern capacity and stopping power. See our modern compact handguns for more suitable options.
- ❌ You expect a pristine, factory-new finish; these are police trade-ins and will show wear.
- ❌ You require a pistol with extensive aftermarket support for accessories or upgrades.
- ❌ You are new to firearms and need something with easier recoil management or a more modern manual of arms.
What are the pros and cons of the Colt Junior .25 ACP?
- ✅ Historical Significance: A genuine piece of Colt and law enforcement history.
- ✅ Deep Concealment: One of the smallest practical firearms ever made, ideal for discreet carry.
- ✅ Collectible Value: Colt branded firearms, especially older models, tend to hold or increase in value.
- ✅ Simple Mechanics: Straightforward blowback design, generally reliable for its intended purpose.
- ✅ Lightweight: Easy to carry without being cumbersome.
- ❌ Limited Stopping Power: The .25 ACP is not known for its ballistic performance; it’s a last-ditch caliber. Consider a 9mm compact for more effective self-defense.
- ❌ No Magazine Included: This particular offering does not include a magazine, requiring an additional purchase.
- ❌ Wear and Tear: As a police trade-in, expect cosmetic imperfections and holster wear.
How does the Colt Junior compare to other pocket pistols?
| Feature | Colt Junior .25 ACP (Police Trade-In) | Phoenix Arms HP22A (.22LR) | Ruger LCP MAX (.380 ACP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel frame and slide | Zamak (zinc alloy) frame, steel slide/barrel | Glass-filled nylon frame, alloy steel slide |
| Quality | Good (Colt/Astra build quality, but used) | Fair (budget-oriented) | Very Good (modern manufacturing) |
| Compatibility | .25 ACP ammo, specific Colt Junior mags | .22LR ammo, Phoenix Arms HP22A mags | .380 ACP ammo, Ruger LCP MAX mags |
| Shipping | FFL transfer required (ships from Kansas Gunshop) | FFL transfer required | FFL transfer required |
| Lifespan/Durability | Good (steel construction, durable for its era) | Moderate (Zamak has limitations) | Very Good (modern polymers and steels) |
| Price | ~$499.00 | ~$150-200 | ~$400-500 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the condition of a police trade-in firearm?
Police trade-in firearms, like this Colt Junior, typically show signs of external wear from holster carry and handling, but are generally well-maintained internally. Expect cosmetic blemishes, holster wear, and potentially some finish loss. We inspect each firearm for mechanical function before listing.
Is the .25 ACP cartridge effective for self-defense?
The .25 ACP is a very small cartridge with limited ballistic performance compared to modern self-defense calibers. While any firearm can be a deterrent, it is generally considered a last-resort or deep-concealment option, not a primary defensive choice. Modern ammunition can improve performance, but it remains a low-power round.
Why is there no magazine included with this pistol?
Often with police trade-ins, accessories like magazines can be separated during the trade-in process or were not included in the original bulk purchase. This particular Colt Junior .25 ACP is offered without a magazine, meaning you will need to source one separately.
What kind of ammunition should I use in a Colt Junior .25 ACP?
You should use standard factory-loaded .25 ACP ammunition from reputable manufacturers. Avoid reloaded or questionable ammunition. Given its age, it’s always wise to start with a small amount of range-safe ammunition to ensure proper function before relying on it for any purpose.
Where can I buy pocket pistols online?
You can purchase pocket pistols, including this Colt Junior .25 ACP Police Trade-In, directly from Kansas Gunshop at kansas-gunshop.com. We ship to your local FFL dealer for transfer.
Is the Colt Junior .25 ACP legal to own in Kansas?
Yes, the Colt Junior .25 ACP is generally legal to own in Kansas for individuals who can legally possess firearms. As an FFL dealer, we adhere to all federal and state laws regarding firearm sales and transfers. Always verify your local and state laws.
What maintenance is required for a police trade-in firearm?
Upon receiving any police trade-in, a thorough cleaning and inspection are highly recommended. Check for any worn springs or components and lubricate appropriately. While these firearms are typically functional, a detailed inspection by a qualified gunsmith can provide peace of mind.
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