Unique VO/79 Olympic Competition .22 Short Semi-Auto Pistol 1974-1979
SOLD FOR: $1325
LSB#: 210903SG29
Make: Unique of Hendaye France
Model: VO/79
Serial Number: 757631
Year of Manufacture: 1974-1979
Caliber: .22 Short
Action Type: Semi Automatic Pistol with detachable magazine
Markings: The left shoulder of the barrel sheath is import-marked, “SOLERSPORT — SEATTLE — WASH”. The left side flat of the barrel sheath is marked “manufacture d’armes” in cursive script, “-64 hendaye-” in cursive script, “unique”, a proof mark, “MADE IN FRANCE”, and “MODELE –VO /79”. The right side of the flat of the barrel sheath is marked “–Cal.22 Short”, “Vitesse Olympique – U.I.T. –” flanked by two horizontal diamonds, the serial number, “757631”, and the Olympics logo. The left side of the grip has a sticker that reads “M.A.P.F. / unique / FRANCE / HENDAYE”.
Barrel Length: 5 7/8”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a ramped blade on a base that is dovetailed into the front of the barrel sheath. The rear sight is a height- and windage-adjustable square-notch that is fixed to the back of the frame.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece ergonomic French walnut with thumb rest, finger grooves, and adjustable palm shelf. Areas where the palm and fingers rest are stippled to help prevent moisture build up on the hand. There are light handling marks with a few intermittent minor nicks on edges. The adjustable palm shelf has a few light drag lines. There is adhesive residue on the upper interior of the grip. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blued Barrel and Barrel Sheath with Stainless Frame
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion, but some moderate stubborn fouling can be seen at the throat.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. Matte surfaces have scattered minor draglines, most notably along the top of the barrel sheath near the vent holes. Edges of the barrel sheath have intermittent minor nicks. Minor tool marks can be seen on some controls. The screws are lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this target pistol rates in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This pistol includes its original factory padded hard case, one (1) 5-round magazine, a cleaning rod attachment, a few tools, an additional recoil spring, and various factory paperwork including a diagram and certificate of authenticity.
Our Assessment: The Standard Catalog of Pistols documented 12 successive years in the 70’s and 80’s where a pistol of this type was used by one or more of the competitors in each match and the French national pistol championship (not THIS gun, but this type). There are also numerous championships in the USA that were dominated by this type of pistol. This pistol was manufactured by Hendaye in France in the late-70s or early-80s and was imported by Solersport of Seattle Washington. A previous owner took this pistol very seriously, and was seemingly quite the shooter—documentation included indicates this person qualified as an NRA sharpshooter in competition. This is a fantastic pistol that will serve any prospective target shooter well. Good luck and happy bidding!