Menz Modell I
August Menz Waffenfabrik · Pistol · Discontinued · 1928
Also known as: Menz Model I, Menz Liliput Modell I, Menz Liliput
Overview
The Menz Modell I is a German striker-fired, blowback-operated semi-automatic vest-pocket pistol, most commonly chambered in 6.35mm Browning (.25 ACP). Introduced in 1928 by the Waffenfabrik August Menz of Suhl, it was simply the maker's earlier Liliput renamed 'Modell I' once the larger Modell II entered the line. It uses an unlocked fixed barrel with an open-top slide, a top-mounted internal extractor, and a simplified bifurcated-block disassembly system. Alongside the standard 6.35mm version, it was offered in a tiny 4.25mm chambering and a larger 7.65mm (.32 ACP) version.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 270 g (9.5 oz) |
| Overall Length | 104 mm (4.09") |
| Barrel Length | 51 mm (2.01") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 230 m/s (755 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 86 J (63 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 15 m (16 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .25 ACP · primary — also known as 6.35x16mm Browning, 6.35mm Browning, .25 Auto
- .32 ACP — 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: Fixed Barrel, Open Top Slide, Internal Extractor, Fixed Sights, Concealable
Service history
Operators
- Civilian market
Production
Production years: 1928-1930s
Continuation of the Menz Liliput, renamed Modell I in 1928; exact production totals not recorded
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Designer: August Menz
Notes
The 6.35mm Modell I measures roughly 104 mm long with a 51 mm barrel and weighs about 270 g; the 4.25mm version is smaller (about 94 mm, 175 g) and the 7.65mm version larger (about 127 mm, 500 g, 7-round magazine). The Modell I designation reflects the 1928 renaming of the original Menz Liliput.
Background
When August Menz launched his larger Modell II in 1928, the original diminutive Liliput was quietly re-badged 'Modell I' - the same tiny Weimar-era vest-pocket automatic under a tidier catalog name.