Unceta Astra Model 900 7.63x25mm .30 Mauser Semi-Auto Pistol, MFD 1929 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1835

LSB#: 210930TP38

Make: Astra

Model: 900

Serial Number: 13934

Year of Manufacture: 1929 (Spanish “C” date code)

Caliber: 7.63x25mm Mauser (.30 Mauser)

Action Type: Internal Magazine Fed Short-Recoil Operated, Semi-Automatic Pistol

Markings: The sideplate is marked “”ASTRA” AUTOMATIC PISTOL CAL 763 / PATENTED JULY, 12. 1928?, the left of the frame below the side plate is marked with the serial number, “13934”. The right of the frame is marked above the grip with Spanish proofs and “C” date code. The right of the barrel at the rear has a Spanish proof mark. The bottom of the bolt’s right grasping knob, the inside of the sideplate are each marked “934”.

Barrel Length: 5 1/2?

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a “V”-notched arm with a slider, having graduated markings from 50 to 1000 meters pinned to a base integral to the barrel extension.

Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece walnut panels with 12 grooves on each panel. There are light nicks and compressions on the wood, most of which have been oiled over. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine-plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blue, with Fire Blue accents

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. Lower areas of the slide have a few light nicks through the finish. On either side of the frame just above the grip panels there are clusters of moderate erosion under the current finish. The top of the barrel has one more notable nick through the finish. The muzzle, outside the crown, has light finish loss and a few minor nicks. The screw head is tool marked with a usable slot. There is a mended crack that runs through the center of the guard. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol rates in Good-to-Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: From a distance, it would be easy to mistake this for a Broomhandle Mauser. As one looks closer, the pins visible on the side of the frame and the lack of a detachable lock-frame on the rear certainly make it clear that you’re looking at something different. Once you take the side plate off, you’ll realize that the Astra 900 is a whole different design which only shares the form of the earlier Mauser pistol. The physical appearance was already iconic due to use in the Great War, the Russian Revolution, and in the various conflicts which wracked China in the early 20th Century. In order to get in on the sales, there were a couple of Spanish companies, including Unceta or “Astra” who put their own designs inside a frame which has a strong external resemblance to the Mauser pistol, but little else in common. This example is in very high condition for the fact that it has been refinished, which is not altogether unexpected in such an old pistol. It is clear the refinishing was a preservation, and is a rather good effort with a rich, modern blue color—even the fire blue parts were re-done, so whoever performed the refinishing cared and was skilled. It is important to note that there is a mended crack in the guard that easy to overlook—another testament to the preservation effort. Good luck and happy bidding!