Steyr-Pieper Model 1909
Österreichische Waffenfabriks-Gesellschaft (Steyr) · Pistol · Discontinued · 1909
Also known as: Steyr Pieper 1908/09, Pieper M1909, Steyr Pocket Pistol
Overview
The Steyr-Pieper Model 1909 is a compact blowback-operated .25 ACP pocket pistol manufactured by the Österreichische Waffenfabriks-Gesellschaft (Steyr) in Austria under the patents of Belgian designer Nicolas Pieper. Its defining feature is a tip-up (break-top) barrel that pivots upward for loading and cleaning, allowing a round to be chambered by hand without cycling the striker. Small, easily concealed, and popular as a civilian self-defence and vest-pocket pistol, it was produced from 1909 into the 1930s.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 325 g (11.5 oz) |
| Overall Length | 125 mm (4.92") |
| Barrel Length | 57 mm (2.24") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 230 m/s (755 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 86 J (63 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
- .25 ACP · primary — also known as 6.35x16mm Browning, 6.35mm Browning, .25 Auto
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Tip Up Barrel, Fixed Sights, Concealed Hammer
Service history
Operators
- Civilian
Production
Production years: 1909-1914, 1921-1939
Produced by Steyr under Nicolas Pieper's tip-up barrel patent; exact totals not documented
Origin
Country of origin: Austria
Designer: Nicolas Pieper
Discontinued: 1939
Notes
Sometimes cataloged as the Steyr Pieper Model 1908/09; later modified examples are marked 'Mod 09/34'. Marked with Pieper patent and OEWG (Steyr) proofs.
Background
The pistol's tip-up barrel let a shooter drop a cartridge straight into the chamber and snap the barrel shut, so it could be carried loaded without ever racking a slide - a genteel convenience prized by early-20th-century vest-pocket carriers.