WAFFENFABRIK BERN 1907

Seller Description For This Firearm

A Revolutionary Piece of History
Step into the world of early 20th-century innovation with the Waffenfabrik Steyr Model 1907, a semi-automatic pistol that holds a unique place in military history. As the first semi-automatic handgun officially adopted by a major military power, this firearm is not just a weapon—it’s a testament to groundbreaking engineering and historical significance. Designed by Czech inventor Karel Krnka and manufactured by the renowned Österreichische Waffenfabrik Gesellschaft (OEWG) in Steyr, Austria, this pistol was at the forefront of technological advancement during its time.

Unparalleled Design and Mechanism

The Roth-Steyr Model 1907 stands out with its locked-breech mechanism, an innovative design that ensures reliability and safety. The barrel and bolt recoil together within a hollow receiver, utilizing helical grooves to rotate the barrel 90 degrees clockwise during operation. This unique system not only enhances durability but also provides smooth cycling of rounds23.

Unlike many pistols of its era, the M1907 features:

A fixed magazine loaded from the top using stripper clips, eliminating concerns about detachable magazines.
A heavy trigger pull designed for mounted cavalry use, ensuring safety even under chaotic battlefield conditions13.
Robust wooden grips terminating in a lanyard ring for secure handling.
This pistol was chambered for the proprietary 8x18mm Roth-Steyr cartridge, offering effective performance with a muzzle velocity of approximately 1,088 feet per second (305 ft-lbs of energy). While not overpowering by modern standards, it was more than sufficient for military engagements of its time13.

Historical Significance
Adopted as the Repetierpistole M.7 by Emperor Franz Josef’s Austro-Hungarian Army in 1907, this firearm became standard issue for cavalry units and later expanded to infantry and artillery forces. It saw extensive use during World War I and remained in service with various nations—including Italy, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, and Hungary—long after Austria-Hungary's dissolution.

Each pistol carries unique markings that reflect its origin and unit assignment. For example:

Austrian-made models are marked with a "K," while Hungarian versions bear an "R."
Many feature inset discs on their grips identifying their assigned regiment or unit.
Exceptional Craftsmanship
Produced between 1908 and 1914 at two facilities—Steyr in Austria (approximately 60,000 units) and FEG in Budapest (around 30,000 units)—the Roth-Steyr M1907 exemplifies meticulous craftsmanship. The quality of materials and attention to detail make these pistols highly durable even after more than a century!

UPC	ECOM00422892
Action	SEMI AUTOMATIC
Barrel Length	5.16" BARREL
Caliber	8MM
Capacity	10 ROUNDS
Finish	BLUED

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