Pistol ID

[redblufflodge]

I have a client who presented a 1911 style pistol with no caliber on manuf. markings. He thought was 9MM. I don't know. Haven't slugged barrel. Markings on grips are FB on one side and VIS on other. Anybody have any ideas on Model, manufacturer, or caliber?

 

[ljnowell]

I am sending you a PM with information on it. I dont think I can quote from a webpage to post it here, unless a mod could explain to me how to do it without violating any laws or TOS.

 

[Jim K]

It sounds like a Polish Radom pistol, also known as the Polish Model 1935 or "VIS" pistol. They were designed and first made in Poland c. 1936; after the Germans occupied Poland, they continued production but for security reasons had all the parts but the barrels made in Poland with the barrels being made at Steyr in Germany (formerly Austria) where the guns were assembled. Up to the very end of the war, they were of good quality and are generally regarded as well made and reliable guns.

One note - what looks like the U.S. Model 1911 manual safety (if your gun has one - the late ones didn't) merely holds the slide at the takedown point. It is not a safety.

There is no caliber marking, but caliber is 9mm Luger. All but the late guns have the marking F.B. Radom, standing for Fabryka Broni Radom or Radom Arms Factory, the original manufacturer.

Jim