Star Modelo B
Star Bonifacio Echeverria, S.A. · Pistol · Discontinued · 1924
Also known as: Star Model B, Pistole Star Modell B (.08)
Overview
The Star Modelo B is a Spanish single-action, short-recoil-operated semi-automatic pistol manufactured by Star Bonifacio Echeverria of Eibar. Closely modeled on the M1911 but lacking a grip safety, it chambers the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge, feeds from an 8-round detachable box magazine, and uses an exposed hammer with fixed sights. Produced from the 1920s into the 1980s, it became one of Spain's most widely exported service pistols.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1085 g (38.3 oz) |
| Overall Length | 215 mm (8.46") |
| Barrel Length | 122 mm (4.80") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 8 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 360 m/s (1181 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 481 J (355 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 | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 9x19mm Parabellum · primary · 9mm NATO — also known as 9mm Luger, 9mm NATO, 9x19mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Thumb Safety
- Features: Fixed Sights, Exposed Hammer, Single Action Trigger
Service history
Operators
- Spanish Armed Forces
- Nazi Germany (Wehrmacht) · adopted 1942 · as Pistole Star Modell B (.08)
- Bulgaria
Conflicts
- Spanish Civil War (1936-1939)
- World War II (1939-1945)
Production
Production years: 1924-1983
Between 1942 and 1944 Nazi Germany purchased in excess of 25,000 Modelo B pistols, with around 15,000 more sold to Bulgaria.
Origin
Country of origin: Spain
Designer: Star Bonifacio Echeverria
Discontinued: 1983
Notes
Derived from the earlier Modelo A, the Modelo B added a more ergonomic grip and was offered in both 9mm Largo and 9mm Parabellum, the latter primarily for export.
Background
Closely resembling the Colt M1911 but without a grip safety, the Star Modelo B earned a reputation as a robust and affordable service pistol; it later gained pop-culture fame as a recognizable surplus 9mm sidearm.