Lorcin L-25
Lorcin Engineering Company · Pistol · Out Of Production · 1989
Also known as: L25, Lorcin Engineering L-25
Overview
The Lorcin L-25 was a tiny, ultra-cheap .25 ACP semi-automatic pistol produced by Lorcin Engineering Company of Mira Loma, California from 1989 to 1996. Built almost entirely from Zamak - a zinc alloy cast in injection molds - the L-25 weighed about 14.5 ounces, measured roughly 4.8 inches long, and held seven rounds. At its peak in 1993, Lorcin was the single largest pistol manufacturer in the United States by volume, churning out 341,243 firearms in that year alone, with the L-25 as its flagship model. The pistol became the canonical Saturday Night Special and a fixture of 1990s American crime statistics.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 411 g (14.5 oz) |
| Overall Length | 122 mm (4.80") |
| Barrel Length | 61 mm (2.40") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 7 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 230 m/s (755 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 87 J (64 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 7 m (8 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Zinc Alloy |
| Slide Material | Zinc Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Chrome |
Calibers
- .25 ACP · primary — also known as .25 Auto, 6.35x16mm SR, 6.35mm Browning
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Fixed Sights, Zamak Construction, Pocket Carry
Production
Estimated total produced: 1,500,000 · Production years: 1989-1996
Lorcin produced over 341,000 pistols in 1993 alone, the majority being L-25s; lifetime L-25 production estimated well above 1 million units
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Discontinued: 1996
Notes
A 2001 ATF publication warned the L-25 was 'extremely dangerous' when dropped due to inadequate sear engagement. Lorcin filed for bankruptcy in 1996 amid dozens of product-liability lawsuits and finally closed in 1998.
Background
In 1993 the Lorcin L-25 made its manufacturer the number-one pistol producer in America - outselling Smith & Wesson, Ruger, and Glock combined that year - despite retailing for under sixty dollars and being widely regarded as the worst handgun money could buy.