Clement Model 1909
Charles Ph. Clement · Pistol · Out Of Production · 1909
Also known as: Clement 1909, Clement Automatic Pistol Model 1909
Overview
The Clement Model 1909 is a compact Belgian blowback semi-automatic pocket pistol designed by Charles Ph. Clement of Liege. A refinement of his earlier Model 1907 and 1908 designs, it was chambered primarily in .25 ACP (6.35mm Browning), with a larger version offered in .32 ACP. It uses a fixed barrel and a distinctive hinged trigger guard that releases the reciprocating breechblock mechanism for takedown, and its grip panels changed the earlier finger grooves to serrations.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 369 g (13.0 oz) |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| 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
- .32 ACP — also known as .32 Automatic, 7.65x17mm Browning SR, 7.65mm Browning
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Concealed Hammer, Hinged Trigger Guard Takedown, Fixed Barrel
Service history
Operators
- Civilian market · adopted 1909
Production
Production years: 1909-1914
Small-scale Liege workshop production; exact figures not documented
Origin
Country of origin: Belgium
Designer: Charles Ph. Clement
Discontinued: 1914
Notes
The .32 ACP version was substantially larger and heavier (around 595 g and roughly 150 mm long) than the .25 ACP pocket model. Production ceased around the outbreak of World War I in 1914.
Background
Charles Ph. Clement's pocket pistols were unusual for their era in using a light reciprocating breechblock rather than a full slide, and the whole action could be dropped out of the frame simply by swinging the hinged trigger guard downward.