Retolaza Velo-Brom
Retolaza Hermanos · Revolver · Discontinued · 1905
Also known as: Velo-Brom, Velobrom
Overview
The Retolaza Velo-Brom is a Spanish velodog-type pocket revolver produced by Retolaza Hermanos of Eibar in the early 20th century. A double-action-only design with a concealed internal hammer, folding trigger and octagonal cylinder, it descends from the popular bicyclist's 'Velo-Dog' self-defence revolvers and was chambered in small cartridges including the 6.35mm Browning (.25 ACP). It was one of several trade names — alongside Brompetier, Puppy and Velo-Mith — under which Retolaza marketed inexpensive pocket revolvers, primarily for export to the French civilian market.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 300 g (10.6 oz) |
| Overall Length | 150 mm (5.91") |
| Barrel Length | 50 mm (1.97") |
| Action Type | Double Action Revolver |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Revolving Cylinder |
| Muzzle Velocity | 232 m/s (761 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 87 J (64 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 10 m (11 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .25 ACP · primary — also known as .25 Auto, 6.35x16mm Browning, 6.35mm Browning
Features
- Firing modes: Repeating
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Concealed Hammer
- Features: Folding Trigger, Concealed Internal Hammer, Octagonal Barrel, Pocket Size
Service history
Operators
- Civilian Market
Production
Production years: c.1905-1915
Exact production figures unrecorded; sold mainly through the French and Spanish civilian pocket-pistol trade.
Origin
Country of origin: Spain
Discontinued: 1915
Notes
Velodog revolvers were marketed to cyclists for defence against stray dogs; the Velo-Brom name combines 'velo' (bicycle) with the Bromura/Brom export branding. Period sources also record the model in 5.5mm Velo-Dog and 8mm chamberings.
Background
Retolaza Hermanos was among the pioneers of pocket-firearm manufacture in Eibar, beginning around 1890 with imitations of the French 'Velo-Dog' bicyclist's revolver before moving into Browning-pattern semi-automatic pistols.