French model 1917 signal pistol

Description

French Model 1917 (Mod.1917) signal pistol.

Used primarily during World War I. This pistol was manufactured by Mecanicarm.

•Purpose: These weapons were essential tools for spotting and communication on the battlefield. Infantry often used them to signal artillery support in situations where other communication forms had failed.

•Design:

•Frame: It features a solid brass frame.

•Barrel: 7-inch barrel with a break-action design for single-round loading.

•Caliber: Designed for 25.5mm (or 25mm) signal flares.

•Grips: Fitted with checkered wood grip plates.

•Identification: Authentic model marked with the model date (1917).

These were only made for 2 years 1917 & 1918 and used by the USMC.

Serial #170 is an extremely low serial number which defines an early production run in 1917.

Located on the left side of the barrel above the hinge and again on the right side of the frame below the hinge. (See pic)

Clear Inspectors initials

Naked “V”

Stamped into the left side of the barrel next to the hinge, and a Naked “V” stamped on the left side of the frame below the hammer. (See pic).

Naked “G”

Stamped into the left side of the frame above the Mod. 1917 

(See pic)

The markings prove the item went through a rigorous military quality-control process during the entire inspection process.

Opens & closes as should, a little wobble between the frame & barrel.

 The action is fully functional with a (hard pull) but a “strong click,”.

The wood grips are checked & sharp, with a smooth finish defining its originality and use.  There is a small piece of wood missing out of the bottom left side of the right hand grip.

Concerning the metal barrel there is zero bluing present, and some rust scale (build-up) above the brass frame on the right and side of the flare chamber (see pic). Some rust / scale buildup inside the barrel (see pics).  The brass frame has a small indentation on the bottom (see pic).

The barrel “outside” has zero bluing, and has aged appropriately due to age.

11” overall length 

7” barrel

5” tall from the top of hammer to the butt end.

1 3/8” OD barrel end

2.8 lbs 

1-available 

$500