Clement Model 1908
Charles Ph. Clement · Pistol · Out Of Production · 1908
Also known as: Clement 1908, Clement Automatic Pistol Model 1908
Overview
The Clement Model 1908 is a compact Belgian blowback semi-automatic pocket pistol chambered in .25 ACP (6.35mm Browning), designed and built by Charles Ph. Clement of Liege. A refinement of the earlier Model 1907, it introduced a redesigned removable backstrap housing the internal hammer spring, plunger and safety-lever tension spring, and adopted parallel front and rear grip straps for a higher, more ergonomic hold. It was produced only in 6.35mm and was made for roughly a year before being superseded by the Model 1909.
Specifications
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Internal Hammer |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 230 m/s (755 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 86 J (63 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| 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
- Features: Concealed Hammer, Removable Backstrap, Fixed Barrel
Service history
Operators
- Civilian market · adopted 1908
Production
Production years: 1908-1909
Small-scale Liege workshop production; observed serial range roughly 7037-10960, exact totals not documented
Origin
Country of origin: Belgium
Designer: Charles Ph. Clement
Discontinued: 1909
Notes
Never offered in 7.65mm. Observed serial numbers run from at least 7037 to 10960, and production lasted only about a year before the transition to the Model 1909 design. Later examples carry a rust-blue finish with English FIRE/SAFE safety markings.
Background
The Model 1908's entire lockwork could be serviced by removing a backstrap held on by just two pins, an unusually maintenance-friendly touch for a turn-of-the-century Liege pocket pistol whose lineage traced back to Charles Clement's earlier 5mm designs.