Star Model HN
Star Bonifacio Echeverria · Pistol · Discontinued · 1931
Also known as: Star HN, Star H/N
Overview
The Star Model HN is a compact, straight-blowback semi-automatic pocket pistol chambered in .380 ACP, produced by the Basque firm Star Bonifacio Echeverria of Eibar, Spain. Introduced in the early 1930s, it is mechanically the same gun as the .32 ACP Star Model H, differing only in caliber. Laid out along conventional Browning lines with an external spur hammer, single-action trigger and a six-round detachable box magazine, the compact HN was popular as a concealable personal-defense and officer's sidearm before and during the Second World War.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 581 g (20.5 oz) |
| Overall Length | 142 mm (5.59") |
| Barrel Length | 87 mm (3.43") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 285 m/s (935 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 250 J (184 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
- .380 ACP · primary — also known as .380 Auto, 9x17mm, 9mm Kurz, 9mm Short
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: External Spur Hammer, Fixed Sights, Concealable
Variants
- Star Model H - Caliber Variant
Service history
Operators
- Spanish military officers
Conflicts
- World War II (1939-1945)
Production
Production years: 1931-1941
Produced during the interwar period and early WWII years; frequently carried by high-ranking officers
Origin
Country of origin: Spain
Discontinued: 1941
Notes
The Model H (.32 ACP) and Model HN (.380 ACP) were introduced the same year and share the same frame, being a modification of the earlier small Star CO model. Factory extended-capacity magazines were offered as an option.
Background
Compact Eibar pocket automatics like the Star H series were favoured concealed sidearms for officers and civilians alike in the 1930s and 1940s, valued for their small size and the extra punch of the .380 ACP chambering over the more common .32 ACP.