Unceta Astra Model 900 7.63x25mm .30 Mauser Semi-Auto Pistol, MFD 1928 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2028
LSB#: 220110JA012
Make: Astra
Model: 900
Serial Number: 13683
Year of Manufacture: 1928 (“B” Spanish date code)
Caliber: 7.63x25mm Mauser (.30 Mauser)
Action Type: Internal Magazine Fed Short-Recoil Operated Semi-Automatic Pistol
Markings: The side plate is marked “”ASTRA” AUTOMATIC PISTOL CAL 7.63 / PATENTED JULY, 12. 1928?, the left side of the frame below the side plate is marked with the serial number, “13683”. The right of the frame is marked above the grip with Spanish proofs and “B” date code. The right of the barrel at the rear and its extension at the front each have a Spanish proof mark. The bottom of the bolt’s right grasping knob is marked “50” and the inside of the side plate is marked “683”. The bottom of the frame rear of the guard is import-marked “KFS ATL G”.
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. The wood is rather dark and has light-to-moderate compressions and nicks throughout. The lower smooth areas have a few notable scrapes through the finish. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Good-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly gray but the rifling is well-defined. There are spots of light erosion along with light stubborn fouling scattered throughout, but concentrated heavily at the center.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 33% of its metal finish. The barrel has spots of moderate surface oxidation scattered about along with light-to-moderate nicks and dings; the crown has worn to white. The slide has light-to-moderate surface oxidation throughout along with thinning on the flat edges; most of the finish in this area has shifted to a light darker patina. All finish on the frame has shifted to a darker patina, there is moderate thinning on the edges along with light scrapes, tool marks, and spots of light surface oxidation throughout. The grip frame has shifted to a darker patina and there are light dings and compression scattered about. The side plate has moderate finish loss, pitting from surface oxidation, and the groove is heavily tool marked. The screw head is tool marked but has a usable slot. The markings are generally clear. Overall, this pistol rates in Good-to-Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. The safety does not pivot all the way forward and as such does not function correctly. 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 (or, heck, even a BlasTech Industries DL-44 Heavy Blaster). 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 broadly 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 that 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”, that put their own designs inside a frame which has a strong external resemblance to the Mauser pistol. This example has wear present throughout, which is typical given that these saw extensive use in unhealthy environments. Good luck and happy bidding!
