Llama XA (.32 acp), what's the consensus on these?

lsudave · Aug 4, 2017

I'm looking at one of these, marked Stoeger import, in 'fair' cosmetic condition. I can't find the date code on the frame, but based on a serial number database range, I'm guessing it's 1973. It has the vented rib on top (unfortunately, as I'd REALLY prefer it not to), and the brown plastic grips (I have some inexpensive wood extras for a Star that I'd consider carving down to the right size, and fitting to it).

I know the brand gets blasted, but I've also read that the earlier ones, the Stoeger imports, are supposed to be pretty good. And I could imagine that .32 acp (actually 7.65mm, I use the Fiocchi with my other .32's) won't beat up the 'soft steel' that it's reputed to be.

Being in rough condition isn't too big an issue... it looks like it's got a black paint job over faded steel, and I would strip it down and give it a DIY refinish.

What's the price range on these, is $175 out the door too much?

Walkalong · Aug 5, 2017

I think that is fair. I have an old Llama .32 ACP and it is fun to shoot. Not my favorite .32 Auto, but a good little gun.

Rex B · Aug 5, 2017

I'm not a big fan of the ribbed slide guns, but they work well. The action is just like a 1911, though it's a blowback. $175 is a decent price. I'd pay that for a working gun.
The earlier pistols are much nicer, production up until about 1952 or so. The old Model 1 had no slide rib. Good steel, beautifully blued. The .380 version of that is the Model 3, which is a locked-breach mini-1911, smaller than the new Brownings. Beautiful guns.
If interested in acquiring one of these send me a PM.

bannockburn · Aug 5, 2017

I think $175 is a decent price for an older Llama though if it's in that rough of shape maybe you should go in with a lower offer. My experiences with Llama pistols is that they were a bit lacking in their metallurgy and overall fit and finish along with the magazines not being all that sturdy and reliable either.

Rex B · Aug 6, 2017

I rebuilt one of those a few years ago. Milled the rib off, installed a Keltec rear sight, Duracoated it, and installed new grips.
Turned out nice. I'll find a pic and upload it.

lincen · Aug 7, 2017

If it has the factory magazine that would be plus, but for that price......I'd get another to add to the three that I currently have.

243winxb · Aug 7, 2017

If a 45 acp of that vintage, i would avoid it.

larryh1108 · Aug 7, 2017

I also think it's a good price. Llamas were made in Spain and supplied the European market and they loved their .7.65mm handguns. Llama made a nice .32ACP for that market. I've found their .32ACP to be their least problematic autos, As has been mentioned, their older Especial marked models were their best guns. I would not hesitate picking one up if you like the .32ACP caliber. I have a 1981 model that has always treated me well. I also hate their plastic grips.... ugliest grips on the market.

Merle1 · Aug 7, 2017

I had one in .380 - it worked just fine.

Jim K · Aug 7, 2017

Those Llama .32's were pretty nice guns. They are blowback (unlike the .380's which have a barrel link lockup like the M1911), and are accurate.

Jim

Llama XA (.32 acp), what's the consensus on these?

lsudave

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Walkalong

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Rex B

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