Steyr Mannlicher M1905

Steyr Mannlicher · Pistol · Discontinued · 1905

Also known as: Mannlicher Model 1905, Steyr-Mannlicher 1905, Modelo 1905

Overview

The Mannlicher Model 1905 was a refined evolution of the M1901, retaining Ferdinand von Mannlicher's fixed-barrel blowback action and the mild 7.63mm Mannlicher cartridge but increasing the integral magazine capacity from 8 to 10 rounds. Built by Steyr, it was top-loaded from a stripper clip and could be carried with the slide locked open for safe loading. Its main claim to fame was adoption by Argentina, making it one of the first self-loading pistols issued by a national military.

Specifications

Weight (empty)910 g (32.1 oz)
Overall Length246 mm (9.69")
Barrel Length160 mm (6.30")
Action TypeBlowback
Firing MechanismSingle Action
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Magazine Capacity10 rounds
Magazine TypeInternal
Muzzle Velocity315 m/s (1033 fps)
Muzzle Energy273 J (201 ft·lbf)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Frame MaterialSteel
Slide MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialWood
FinishBlued

Calibers

Features

Base model

Mannlicher-M1901

Service history

Operators

Production

Estimated total produced: 11,000 · Production years: 1905-1910

Largest single batch went to the Argentine Navy; remainder commercial sales.

Origin

Country of origin: Austria

Designer: Ferdinand Ritter von Mannlicher

Discontinued: 1910

Notes

Differs from the M1901 chiefly in capacity (10 vs 8 rounds) and in being the version adopted by Argentina. Mechanism confirmed as unlocked blowback in slow-motion testing. Muzzle velocity/energy estimated within the 305-326 m/s range reported for the cartridge; figures here are approximate.

Background

The M1905 is essentially the M1901 perfected, with a fatter 10-round magazine. Argentine surplus 7.65 Mannlicher ammunition from the 1940s became notorious for unreliable primers decades after the pistol left service.