Synopsis:

Scarce and highly charismatic Bergmann M1897 No. 5, the most striking of Bergmann's semiautomatic pistols, designed in hopes of securing a military contract. Bergmann's first locked breech pistol, one of the first of its genre, this model with a horizontal locking system, and one of the first guns to have a staggered double column magazine! This example offered with an original shoulder stock.

Description:

The Bergmann 1897 No. 5 pistol stands as a testament to the innovative firearm design of its era. Crafted by the prolific German engineer Louis Schmeisser, this semi-automatic pistol introduced remarkable advancements for its time. Chambered in 7.8mm Bergmann, it offered reliable firepower while its locked breech action ensured smooth cycling and proper function of the high velocity rounds. Another distinctive feature was its detachable box magazine, a pioneering concept that allowed for rapid reloading—a significant departure from the typical revolvers of that era and Bergmann's earlier models. The Bergmann 1897 No. 5 pistol not only played a role in the evolution of firearm technology but also left an indelible mark on the history of weaponry. Fewer than 1,000 were assembled, some authors citing approximately 800, relatively few surviving to this day. Pistol #110 is an early but standard configuration pistol whose barrel shroud is mounted with a drift adjustable sight. The rear sight is vertically adjustable from 1-1000 meters. The bolt shroud is marked “PISTOLET BERGMANN/PATENT BREVETTE S.G.D.G.” The left side of the frame is struck with the Crown/C/U. The full serial number is on the right side of the frame over the trigger guard. Unmarked detachable magazine with 5 indicator holes and a removable floorplate. Complete with an original stock whose lug is numbered “50”.

Condition:

VG+ original blue some touch up seemingly applied to the barrel. Comparable condition strawed and fire blued small parts, showing no suggestion of tough up. Near EXC original grips with slightly blunted checkering but no chips or losses. G magazine whose follower is notched for better bolt retention, oxidative scattering as carefully imaged. Bright bore with sharp rifling. Perfect manual mechanics. G/VG shoulder stock with crazing. No cleaning rod with the pocket having two rivets near the bottom. Shoulder straps have been removed. A phenomenal steampunk pistol, one of the first locked breech semi-automatics, this example particularly interesting in having an original shoulder stock that will need a little TLC to properly fit the overly tight lug to pistol.