Star Modelo 1920
Star Bonifacio Echeverria · Pistol · Discontinued · 1920
Also known as: Star Model 1920, Pistola Star Modelo Militar 1920
Overview
The Star Modelo 1920 was a Spanish single-action semi-automatic pistol manufactured by Star Bonifacio Echeverria SA of Eibar, chambered in 9mm Largo. Based on the Colt M1911 short-recoil locked-breech system, it was one of the first military service pistols offered by Star. The Guardia Civil adopted it in 1921, requesting modifications that led to the improved Modelo Militar 1921.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1000 g (35.3 oz) |
| Overall Length | 213 mm (8.39") |
| Barrel Length | 127 mm (5.00") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 8 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 360 m/s (1181 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 525 J (387 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 800 m (875 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 9x23mm Largo · primary — also known as 9mm Largo, 9mm Bergmann-Bayard, 9x23mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: External Hammer, Browning Locked Breech
Variants
- Star Modelo Militar 1921 — Improved
Service history
Operators
- Guardia Civil · adopted 1921
Conflicts
- Spanish Civil War (1936-1939)
Production
Estimated total produced: 25,000 · Production years: 1919-1940
Approximately 25,000 produced across the Modelo 1920 family
Origin
Country of origin: Spain
Designer: Bonifacio Echeverria
Discontinued: 1921
Notes
The Guardia Civil requested the safety be relocated to the frame and a grip safety added; these changes produced the Modelo Militar 1921. The line evolved through the 1921, 1922, 1931 and 1940 models.
Background
Star built the Modelo 1920 as a saleable Spanish take on the Colt 1911 at a time when dozens of Eibar workshops were cloning American designs - but unlike most, Star turned it into a genuine military contract pistol when the Guardia Civil ordered over 9,000 of them.