Dreyse Model 1910
Dreyse · Pistol · Out Of Production · 1910
Also known as: Dreyse 1910, Dreyse Large Frame
Overview
The Dreyse Model 1910 was a large-frame, blowback-operated semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, designed by Louis Schmeisser for Rheinische Metallwaaren- und Maschinenfabrik (later Rheinmetall) of Sömmerda. It was an ambitious attempt to scale the simple blowback action up to a full-power military cartridge, intended for German military and police adoption. To contain the powerful 9mm round with an unlocked breech, Schmeisser used an exceptionally stiff recoil spring, which made manually cycling the slide difficult and required a special breech-block release mechanism.
Specifications
| Barrel Length | 133 mm (5.24") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 8 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 9x19mm Parabellum · primary · 9mm NATO — also known as 9mm Luger, 9mm Parabellum, 9x19mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Hinged Breech Block, Decocking Spring Release
Service history
Operators
- German Empire
Conflicts
- World War I (1914-1918)
Production
Estimated total produced: 1,000 · Production years: 1910-1915
Estimates range from about 500 to 1,000 units; production was difficult and the military adoption plan collapsed
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Designer: Louis Schmeisser
Discontinued: 1915
Notes
Manufacturing the heavy blowback action to the required tolerances proved difficult and expensive; despite thousands being ordered when announced, only an estimated 500-1,000 were completed before the project collapsed. Surviving examples are rare and prized by collectors.
Background
To tame full-power 9mm Parabellum in a simple unlocked blowback, Schmeisser fitted a recoil spring so stiff that shooters could not rack the slide normally; the pistol needed a dedicated breech-block release just so the user could chamber a round.