Steyr Mannlicher Argentine Modelo 1905 7.63x21mm Semi-Automatic Pistol, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1257
LSB#: 211104DW19
Make: Waffenfabrik Steyr
Model: System Mannlicher Model 1905
Serial Number: 5486
Year of Manufacture: 1905-1910
Caliber: 7.63x21mm Mannlicher
Action Type: Single Action, Delayed Blowback, Semi-Auto Pistol with Internal Magazine Fed by Stripper Clips
Markings: The left of the barrel, the left of the frame behind the barrel, and the bottom of the action cover are each marked “5486”. The left of the frame has a circled “T” next to the serial marking. The bottom-front of the slide is marked “86”. The left of the hammer is marked “86”, the right of the unloading switch is marked “8”, the inside of the left grip panel is marked “86”. The right of the barrel is marked “1306”, found again on the bottom of the action cover near the front. The left of the action cover is marked “SYSTEM / MANNLICHER / Md. 1905 / WAFFENFABRIK / STEYR”, the right has had its Argentine crest removed. The top of the frame’s beavertail has “RA” in oval (Argentine Republic inspection marking).
Barrel Length: 6 1/4”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed into the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a “V”-notch integral to the rear of the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece serrated wood panels. The grips have light handling wear with some scattered nicks, a few dings and scratches. The left panel shows discoloration from age and oil. The right panel is noticeably brighter and does not fit as well as the left, indicating it is a replacement. The serrations are generally well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, some small parts are In The White
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is well defined. There is scattered light-moderate erosion and light pitting in the bore, mostly in the grooves.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 90% of its current metal finish. The finish is generally strong throughout. There are some scattered light nicks, scuffs, scratches and edge-thinning. The most notable wear is at the leading edges of the slide’s arms and the patch on the right of the action cover where the Argentinian crest was removed. There finish shows a plum hue. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear, the serial markings on the bottom of the action cover have a gold paint-fill and there are remnants of paint fill in other markings. Overall, this pistol is in Good-Very Good condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Mannlicher Model 1905 was the end of a long series of pistol designs by Ferdinand von Mannlicher, slightly larger than the earlier 1901 Model. It is a slightly delayed blowback pistol with an external hammer, single action, and fed from a 10-round internal magazine loaded with stripper clips. This example was made for the Republica Argentina, one of the larger purchasers of the model, designated the Modelo 1905. This example has had its Argentine crest removed, as is very common with this model, but still retains an “RA” acceptance mark on the frame. The primary components, barrel, slide, frame and action cover have matching serial numbers, but some of the small parts and one of the grips have been replaced. The pistol retains strong mechanics and is in good shape considering its age. This is a nice example of a fairly scarce pistol, and would be a great addition to a collection of early semi-automatic military pistols. Please see our photos and good luck!