Astra Model 200 Firecat
Astra-Unceta y Cia · Pistol · Out Of Production · 1920
Also known as: Astra Firecat, Astra M200, Firecat
Overview
The Astra Model 200 Firecat is a small .25 ACP (6.35mm Browning) pocket pistol manufactured by Astra-Unceta y Cia of Guernica, Spain. Introduced in 1920 and produced until 1967, the Firecat was designed as a miniature derivative of the Colt M1911 layout, retaining a grip safety, manual thumb safety, and detachable box magazine in an extremely compact package. The pistol was popular as a concealable backup and civilian self-defense arm, with later production variants adding a grip safety to earlier versions that omitted it.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 369 g (13.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 114 mm (4.49") |
| Barrel Length | 54 mm (2.13") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 230 m/s (755 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 86 J (63 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 15 m (16 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .25 ACP · primary — also known as 6.35x16mm Browning, 6.35mm Browning, .25 Auto
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Grip Safety, Magazine Safety
- Features: Miniature 1911 Design, Concealed Hammer, Fixed Sights
Service history
Operators
- Spanish civilian market · adopted 1920
Production
Production years: 1920-1967
Long production run of 47 years; popular pocket pistol in Spain and via export
Origin
Country of origin: Spain
Designer: Unceta y Cia
Discontinued: 1967
Notes
Some sources cite barrel lengths between 54 mm and 57 mm depending on production run. Early production examples were sold without a grip safety. The Firecat was widely engraved and nickel-plated for the commercial market.
Background
The Firecat is essentially a Colt 1911 shrunk down to fit in a vest pocket - Astra's gunsmiths preserved the grip safety, thumb safety, and magazine layout of Browning's masterpiece while chambering it for the diminutive .25 ACP. It became one of the longest-produced pocket pistols of the 20th century, prized by collectors today for its delicate engraving and miniature charm.