Retolaza 1914
Retolaza Hermanos · Pistol · Discontinued · 1914
Also known as: Retolaza Liberty 1914, Liberty Model 1914, Vilar 1914
Overview
The Retolaza 1914 is a Spanish blowback-operated semi-automatic pistol chambered in .32 ACP, manufactured by Retolaza Hermanos of Eibar. A close copy of John Browning's FN/Colt Model 1903 pattern, it was one of the many 'Ruby'-type pistols produced in the Basque Country during World War I and purchased in large quantities by the French Army to address sidearm shortages. Like most Eibar trade pistols of the era, it was inexpensive but of modest quality.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 794 g (28.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 151 mm (5.94") |
| Barrel Length | 83 mm (3.27") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 9 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 282 m/s (925 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 188 J (139 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .32 ACP · primary — also known as .32 Auto, 7.65x17mm Browning, 7.65mm Browning
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Fixed Sights, Browning 1903 Pattern
Service history
Operators
- French Army · adopted 1915
Conflicts
- World War I (1914-1918)
- World War II (1939-1945)
Production
Production years: 1914-1918
Mass-produced under French military contracts during WWI as part of the broader Ruby-type pistol procurement
Origin
Country of origin: Spain
Designer: Retolaza Hermanos
Discontinued: 1936
Notes
One of numerous Spanish 'Ruby'-pattern 7.65mm pistols. Retolaza marketed near-identical designs under names including Liberty, Vilar, Paramount, Titan, and Titanic. Build quality was generally considered poor.
Background
During WWI, France's urgent need for sidearms led it to contract dozens of small Eibar workshops, including Retolaza Hermanos, for blowback .32 ACP pistols based on Browning's 1903 design. These interchangeable 'Ruby' pistols armed French troops despite uneven quality and inconsistent magazine compatibility between makers.