MAB Modele C

Seller Description For This Firearm

This MAB Modèle C in .32 ACP (7.65 Browning) is a standout example of a pre-war French pocket pistol, manufactured by Manufacture d’Armes de Bayonne (MAB) and dating to approximately 1938 based on serial number 13947. That places it right on the edge of World War II production, giving it a level of historical context that most common surplus pistols simply do not have.

Built on a proven blowback system and heavily influenced by the Browning 1910 pattern, the Model C was one of France’s primary civilian and police sidearms of the era. What sets this one apart is the “MADE IN FRANCE FOR W.A.C.” marking, indicating export to the U.S. through Western Arms Corp, a known importer of European firearms during that period. That combination of pre-war manufacture and early U.S. import history makes this a far more interesting and harder-to-find example than typical postwar imports.

The pistol remains in original configuration, retaining its correct MAB-marked grips and strong, crisp factory markings throughout. Condition shows honest, unaltered wear consistent with its age, including natural finish thinning and light patina, exactly what serious buyers want to see in an authentic piece. No refinishing, no modern alterations, just a clean, original pistol that has clearly stood the test of time.

Chambered in .32 ACP with a 7 round capacity, it features a 3.9" barrel, approximately 6.5" overall length, steel frame, frame-mounted manual safety, and traditional European heel-style magazine release. This is not just another old .32. It is a late 1930s, pre-war French pistol with documented U.S. import lineage, offering both historical significance and collector appeal in a compact, usable format. Pieces like this do not surface often in this kind of honest, original condition, and they tend to disappear quickly once recognized for what they are. All used firearms are sold “as is,” with no warranties, expressed or implied.

UPC	ECOM00538510
Action	SEMI AUTOMATIC
Barrel Length	3.9" BARREL
Caliber	.32 ACP
Capacity	7 ROUNDS
Finish	PATINA