Synopsis:

Historically interesting Astra M900 broomhandle, a mid-production example, cal. 7.63mm, with a two-line address, used in the Chinese Civil War with two Chinese inspection characters on the right side of the barrel extension. Matching except the rear bolt, G-VG bore, and correct manual mechanics.

Description:

Standard configuration, mid-production Astra 900, caliber 7.63mm, with large ring hammer, two-line address, and a full grip. NO IMPORT MARKS. Standard 5.5-inch screw-in barrel and slip-in tangent rear sight graduated from 50-1000. Short extractor and two-lug firing pin. Sideplate with two-line address referencing manufacturer, caliber, and patent date 1928. Full serial number on frame above left grip. Right side marked with the automatic pistol proof on barrel, barrel extension, and frame whose markings include the Eibar house proof and the year code “C” reflecting production in 1929. The right side of the barrel extension with two Chinese characters translating: "Inspected, Retain in Service." Serrated wood panels. Partial lanyard ring. Major parts rust blued; most small parts fire blued; bolt, hammer, and small transverse bolts in the white. Limited disassembly shows matching rear sight, sideplate, floorplate, and grips. Unnumbered follower, rear bolt #243. The Astra Model 900 is a Spanish copy of the German Mauser C96, sharing the same caliber, magazine capacity, and holster type, produced by Astra-Unceta y Cia beginning in 1927, externally similar appearance to the C96 but with different internal parts. Approximately 30,000 units shipped to Chinese warlords until 1937, the remaining pistols were subsequently used in the Spanish Civil War with additional numbers sold to Germany during 1940-1943.

Condition:

VG original finish, about 75%blue, the balance worn, drifting to patina as typical for the Chinese Warlord guns that were in continuous use throughout their nearly 30 year Civil War. Most fire blued parts with considerable fading, the color remaining in protected areas. Extractor with slight ripple/bend, lanyard ring with missing segment. Oil darkened grips with scattered handling marks. G-VG bore with etching, easily discernible rifling. Correct manual mechanics.