Menz Model IVA
August Menz Waffenfabrik · Pistol · Discontinued · 1933
Also known as: Menz Modell IVA, Menz Mod. IV A
Overview
The Menz Model IVA is a German blowback semi-automatic pocket pistol chambered in 7.65mm Browning (.32 ACP), produced by the August Menz firm of Suhl in the early-to-mid 1930s. A variant of the double-action-only Model IV, the IVA combined single- and double-action lockwork, allowing both a self-cocking first shot and lighter single-action follow-ups from its external hammer. Its slide is inscribed 'MENZ P&B PIST CAL. 7,65 MOD IV A', and it ranks among the rarest of all Menz designs, documented in only a handful of collector references.
Specifications
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 300 m/s (984 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 200 J (148 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .32 ACP · primary — 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: Exposed Hammer, Single Action Double Action Trigger
Base model
Production
Production years: 1933-1937
Extremely scarce; production likely never reached full scale before August Menz was absorbed by Bergmann Erben in the late 1930s.
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Designer: August Menz
Discontinued: 1937
Notes
Belongs to the Menz Model III/IIIA/IV/IVA police-pistol series introduced around 1933. The base Model IV fired double-action-only; the IVA added single-action capability. The model is recorded essentially only by James P. Stewart and appears in no contemporary catalogues, so complete physical dimensions are unavailable.
Background
The Model IVA is so obscure that it is documented in essentially a single collector reference - James P. Stewart's work - and appears in no period Menz catalogue, leaving even its exact dimensions a mystery to modern collectors.