Hebel Model 1894
Fritz Lagenhahn · Pistol · Discontinued · 1894
Also known as: Leuchtpistole M/1894, Hebel Leuchtpistole 1894, Signalpistole Modell 1894
Overview
The Hebel Model 1894 is a single-shot, break-action signal flare pistol that was the standard German flare pistol of the First World War. Chambered for the 26.5mm signal cartridge, it fired illuminating, colored signal, and smoke rounds for battlefield signalling and night illumination. The name Hebel (German for 'lever') refers to the pistol's lever-operated break-action mechanism, not to a manufacturer; the pattern was produced in large numbers by many German firms and remained in service through the Second World War.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1800 g (63.5 oz) |
| Overall Length | 351 mm (13.82") |
| Barrel Length | 229 mm (9.02") |
| Action Type | Break Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 1 rounds |
| Barrel Rifling | None |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 1 inch Very signal cartridge (26.5mm) · primary — also known as 26.5mm signal, Kaliber 4, 1 inch flare, Very light
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Single Shot Break Action
- Features: Break Action, Lever Release, Smoothbore Barrel, Single Shot
Service history
Operators
- German Empire · adopted 1894 · as Leuchtpistole M/1894
- Nazi Germany
Conflicts
- World War I (1914-1918)
- World War II (1939-1945)
Production
Production years: 1894-1918
Produced in very large numbers by many German manufacturers as the standard signal pistol of the German Army in WWI
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Designer: Ingenieurkomitee des Heeres-Pionier-Corps
Discontinued: 1945
Notes
Produced by numerous German contractors including Fritz Lagenhahn, Christoph Funk, and Meffert of Suhl. Barrel lengths varied by production run, with a standard barrel around 229mm and both shorter and longer variants known.
Background
The Hebel served in the trenches and by German aircrews of the Fliegertruppe, its flares coordinating attacks, marking positions, and signalling distress across the battlefields of the Western Front.