Broomhandle .45 ACP

rhmc24

November 12, 2002 05:32

I see Mauser broomhandle pistols in .45 ACP caliber offered for sale now and then. I think the .45s are Chinese made. Question are they a quality pistol. I once had a .30 cal broomhandle that was excellent but it was German made. During the war I went to VN several times but was never able to get one of the .45s but still think I would like to have one. Any info appreciated. Thanks, Robert

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  rhmc24

  November 12, 2002 05:32

  Here is prelim report on the Chinese 45 broomhandle I just received. Apparently never used, no finish wear on high points. Finish has very minor discoloration, rust starting probably from long time storage. Actually so minor that it is not immediately noticeable, considering it is a military piece not finely finished in the first place. The major surface areas like barrel and flat sides are finished well enough that tool marks are removed, but not really polished. Small recessed panels on each side about 1" by 1 1/2" have end mill swirls like one sees on some Lugers, but worse. The machine fitting of the action seems excellent, with no sidewise slop in the barrel-to-receiver ways, bolt-to-receiver, etc. Bore is beautiful very narrow lands, six right hand twist. Inferior quality or skill evidence in hand work on small parts. Example is rear sight has free movement right-left about 1/32". Sight is graduated to 1000 meters (optimistic for .45ACP). At 500 meters is is raised about an inch. Won't go higher due to mechanical limits. Operation of action feels gritty, needing cleaning or a lot of break-in firing. Reminds me of a SS S&W Model 66 I bought about 20 years ago. Length of firing pin is that with hammer down it would fire if struck or dropped. Will report again when I get more info.

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  captkirk3@dslextreme.com

  November 12, 2002 06:11

  GOOD REPORT....I eagerly await the next installment...A couple of Photos would be interesting....
  
  Captain Kirk, Tech Staff

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