Roth-Sauer 1900
J.P. Sauer & Sohn · Pistol · Discontinued · 1900
Also known as: Roth-Sauer Model 1900
Overview
The Roth-Sauer 1900 is an early German long-recoil-operated semi-automatic pocket pistol chambered for the proprietary 7.65mm Roth-Sauer cartridge. Designed by Georg Roth and Karel Krnka and manufactured under license by J.P. Sauer & Sohn of Suhl, it used a rotating-lug locking bolt and a fixed seven-round magazine loaded from stripper clips. It is one of the earliest European self-loading pistols.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 655 g (23.1 oz) |
| Overall Length | 165 mm (6.50") |
| Barrel Length | 100 mm (3.94") |
| Action Type | Long Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 7 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Internal Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 250 m/s (820 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 144 J (106 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
- 7.65mm Roth-Sauer · primary — also known as 7.65x13mm Roth-Sauer
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Internal Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Fixed Magazine, Stripper Clip Loading
Service history
Operators
- Austro-Hungarian officers
Production
Estimated total produced: 4,000 · Production years: 1900-1909
Manufactured by J.P. Sauer & Sohn under Roth-Krnka patent license
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Designer: Georg Roth
Discontinued: 1909
Notes
Production was limited to roughly 4,000 units; surviving examples are rare and prized by collectors.
Background
The Roth-Sauer cartridge fed from a fixed magazine loaded with a stripper clip through the open action, a feature borrowed from contemporary military rifle practice.