POTD: A Poor Copy of The FN Model 1910 – Astra 700 Special

Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! The Astra 700 Special was a Spanish pistol produced from 1926-1927 in an attempt to capitalize on the popularity of the Belgian FN Model 1910. Astra took their Model 100, itself a post-WWI renamed version of the Ruby pistol, and restyled it with a rotating barrel lock like the FN. However, internally it remained a Ruby design, keeping the hammer, trigger, and safety. Only 4,000 were made, intended largely for export to China. But the 700 Special failed to gain popularity, so Astra ceased production when they introduced the Model 900 in the late 1920s, which copied the Mauser C96 and proved far more successful. Though it copied FN’s looks, the 700 Special was mechanically still a Ruby derivative, with parts like the shrouded hammer and mid-frame safety. Its lack of sales showed Astra’s failure to ride the coattails of FN’s success.

“Manufacturer: Astra Unceta Sa

Model: 700

Type: Pistol

Gauge: 7.65 mm auto

Barrel: 3 3/4 inch round

Finish: blue

Grip: hard rubber”

Sam.S

Writer | TheFirearmBlog Writer | AllOutdoor.com Instagram | sfsgunsmith Old soul, certified gunsmith, published author, avid firearm history learner, and appreciator of old and unique guns.