Synopsis:

Fabulous ANTIQUE Bergmann 1896 No. 3 Target Pistol, arguably the first semi-automatic target pistol to have been manufactured, that required set trigger resetting between shots. Fewer than ten recorded, rarely offered for sale!

Description:

Phenomenal Bergmann 1896 No. 3 Target pistol, arguably the First Semi-Automatic Target Pistol Manufactured, a model that required set trigger resetting between shots, fewer than 50 estimated to have been made, fewer than 10 recorded. Caliber 6.5mm Bergmann. Although the general form is that of a Bergmann 1896 pistol with a blowback mechanism, positive firing pin impaction, and stripper clip feeding, the specifics are sharply focused to address the needs of the serious target shooter. This pistol has a 7 1/2" screw-in octagonal barrel and high profile, fully adjustable target sights: the protected front sight windage adjustable, the rear sight height adjustable. Later design bolt with extractor, grip with palm swell. Unique firing mechanism that while functioning as a semi-automatic, the cocked hammer will not fall until the set (hair) trigger is engaged. This pistol drilled/threaded for a finger extension that is not installed. Walnut checkered grips. Major components rust blued, small parts strawed or fire blued. Extensive disassembly shows all matching parts to include the barrel, the bolt cover, bolt, firing pin, hammer, trigger, resetting bar, magazine cover, follower lever, each of the grips, and even the larger screws!

Condition:

Beautiful restoration with 99+% rust blue, flat planes, carefully preserved original markings, comparable condition strawed and fire blued parts. Front sight missing tiny bead from post. Disassembly showed extractor missing head. VG+ original grips with oil staining as photographed. Bright bore with minimal erosion and sharp rifling. Correct manual mechanics, the trigger setting a bit stiff. An extraordinary ANTIQUE pistol that is seldom offered for sale.