My first "Unique" Kriegsmodell

[Mauser HSc]

Just picked up this little number:

The Unique Kriegsmodell was another further development of the Unique 17. At this variation a external hammer was installed and the frame was improved for ergonomic reasons.

Technical data:Caliber: 7,65 mm
Function: Masseverschluss; ohne Hammer; Schlittenfang
Barrel length: 81 mm
Weight: 778 g
Magazine capacity: 9 Schuss

Company:Manufacture D'Armes des Pyrenees
Location:Hendaye
Period:1941 - 1944
Amount: 18,000
Serial numbers: 58000 - 76000

Parts of the Unique Kriegsmodell were produced in small lots. They were assembled by mounting numbers. The serial number was struck on the final parts after mounting. On this weapon the serial is found only one time. On the other places, according to the literature, were the serial number should be, are the 2 or 3 digit mounting numbers.

Characteristics:
Legend:
7,65 COURT 9 COUPS "UNIQUE"
MANUFACTURE D'ARMES DES PYRÉNÉES, HENDAYE
Finish: highpolish-finish
Grips: black plastic grips with vertical grooves
Legend: 7,65 m/m; 9 Schuss
Serial number: 5-digit number right on frame

Acceptance stamp: E/WaA D20 right on frame
Test proof stamp: E HK right on barrel

[marfen]

Looks like a nice example...congrats !

Mark

[cossack1648]

Nice one. I heard that they way popular among U-boot officers, but how true it is I don't know.
Jack

[Douglas Jr.]

Nice example. It's a clear evolution (both in design as well as in reliability) from the Ruby type pistols from WWI.

Congratulations,
Douglas

[Mauser HSc]

Thanks for all your comments! I'd been looking for one of these for a while. Haven't seen many. It's difficult to find info on them too as not much is out there. I know this "Kriegsmodell" version is a Wehrmacht inspired improvement on the French Model 17 adding the external hammer and rounded backstrap. I've read some varying reports that they were issued to Luftwaffe and Kriegsmarine but never seen any period photos of one of these in use. It seems more likely that they would have stayed on the Western front but you never know!