Bergmann Simplex
Theodor Bergmann Waffenfabrik · Pistol · Discontinued · 1901
Also known as: Bergmann Model 1901, Bergmann Simplex M1901
Overview
The Bergmann Simplex is an early blowback pocket pistol from Theodor Bergmann, chambered for the proprietary 8mm Simplex cartridge. Unlike Bergmann's powerful military Mars designs, the Simplex used a deliberately weak, stubby cartridge so the gun could rely on a cheap unlocked blowback breech with a fixed barrel. It feeds from a detachable box magazine ahead of the trigger guard, with later production moving to Belgium.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1000 g (35.3 oz) |
| Overall Length | 165 mm (6.50") |
| Barrel Length | 89 mm (3.50") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 240 m/s (787 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 132 J (97 ft·lbf) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 8mm Simplex · primary — also known as 8mm Bergmann Simplex, 8mm Bergmann No. 6, 8x18mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Fixed Barrel, Magazine Ahead Of Trigger, Witness Holes, Fixed Sights
Production
Estimated total produced: 4,000 · Production years: 1901-1914
About 4,000, plus an unknown number of Belgian and Spanish copies
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Designer: Theodor Bergmann
Discontinued: 1914
Notes
Initial production by V.C. Schilling in Suhl, Germany, with later production in Belgium; Spanish copies also exist. Five-round magazine was standard, with 8- and 10-round extended magazines available. Sources disagree on overall length (~165 mm vs ~217 mm). The proprietary 8mm Simplex cartridge died with the gun.
Background
Bergmann deliberately neutered the cartridge, a stubby 18mm round ballistically below .32 ACP, so his pocket pistol could use a cheap unlocked blowback breech. The design worked but was outcompeted the moment John Browning's FN Model 1900 arrived, and its proprietary 8mm round died with it.