Star Model A
Star Bonifacio Echeverria, S.A. · Pistol · Discontinued · 1924
Also known as: Star Modelo A, Star Super A, Modelo Militar 1922
Overview
The Star Model A is a Spanish single-action semi-automatic pistol manufactured by Star Bonifacio Echeverria, S.A. Introduced in 1924 and chambered for the 9x23mm Largo cartridge, it is closely based on the Browning-designed Colt M1911, using a short-recoil tilting-barrel action and an external hammer. Evolved from Star's Modelo Militar 1922, the Model A served as a standard Spanish military and police sidearm and remained in production until 1983.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1085 g (38.3 oz) |
| Overall Length | 215 mm (8.46") |
| Barrel Length | 127 mm (5.00") |
| Height | 140 mm (5.51") |
| Width | 35 mm (1.38") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 9 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 365 m/s (1198 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 535 J (395 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 9x23mm Largo (Bergmann-Bayard) · primary — also known as 9mm Largo, 9mm Bergmann, 9mm Bergmann-Bayard, 9x23mm Bergmann
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Thumb Safety
- Features: Single Action Only, Browning Tilting Barrel, External Hammer, Fixed Sights
Variants
- Star Model B - Caliber Variant
Service history
Operators
- Spanish Armed Forces
- Guardia Civil
- Spanish Air Force
Conflicts
- Spanish Civil War (1936-1939)
Production
Production years: 1924-1983
Derived from the Modelo 1920/Modelo Militar 1922 1911-clone lineage; long Spanish military and police service life.
Origin
Country of origin: Spain
Designer: Bonifacio Echeverria
Discontinued: 1983
Notes
The Model A descends from the Modelo Militar 1921/1922; a grip safety on early Guardia Civil models was deleted on customer request. A heavier-built Super A variant introduced an improved takedown system. The B-series shifted to 9x19mm Parabellum.
Background
Star's engineers admired the Colt M1911 and, after a Fabrique Nationale licensing route collapsed following World War I, set out to build their own Browning-pattern pistol tailored to the gunmaking traditions of Eibar in the Basque Country.