Webley Model 1905
Webley & Scott Ltd. · Pistol · Discontinued · 1905
Also known as: Webley & Scott Model 1905, Webley 1905 Automatic
Overview
The Webley Model 1905 is a British blowback-operated semi-automatic pistol chambered in .32 ACP and the first self-loading pistol produced by Webley & Scott. Designed as a compact sidearm for police and military use, it fed from an eight-round detachable box magazine in the grip. Its distinctive exposed protruding barrel and oblong trigger guard drew criticism, and it was largely superseded by Webley's later locked-breech .38 and .455 automatics.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 570 g (20.1 oz) |
| Overall Length | 160 mm (6.30") |
| Barrel Length | 90 mm (3.54") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 8 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 290 m/s (951 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 183 J (135 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Hard Rubber |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .32 ACP · primary — also known as .32 Automatic, 7.65x17mm Browning SR, 7.65mm Browning
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Exposed Protruding Barrel, Oblong Trigger Guard, Grip Safety Omitted
Service history
Operators
- Metropolitan Police
- Royal Navy
Conflicts
- World War I (1914-1918)
Production
Production years: 1905-1913
Produced in limited numbers; superseded by later Webley & Scott self-loading pistols.
Origin
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Designer: William Whiting
Discontinued: 1913
Notes
Often cited as Webley's first automatic pistol design. The protruding barrel and unusual trigger guard shape made it unpopular in service. It paved the way for the larger Webley & Scott self-loading pistols adopted by the Royal Navy and Royal Horse Artillery.
Background
As Webley & Scott's first venture into self-loading pistols, the Model 1905 marked the firm's transition from its renowned top-break revolvers toward the semi-automatic designs that would later arm the Royal Navy.