Steyr M1912/16 Automatic "Repetierpistole"

Published on December 8, 2025
Duration: 17:50

This guide details the disassembly and comparison of the rare Steyr M1912/16 'Repetierpistole,' a full-automatic variant of the Steyr Hahn M12. It highlights key external and internal differences required for full-auto fire, including the selector lever, extended magazine, and complex linkage system. The information is presented with high authority by Ian McCollum, an expert in historical firearms, based on access to museum collections.

Quick Summary

The Steyr M1912/16 Repetierpistole is a rare, full-automatic variant of the WWI-era Steyr Hahn M12 pistol. It features a 16-round magazine, a high cyclic rate of 1200 RPM, and internal modifications for automatic fire, distinguishing it from the standard 8-round semi-automatic model.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Steyr M1912/16
  2. 01:05Naming and Production History
  3. 02:18Technical Specifications and Fire Rate
  4. 03:47Visual Comparison and Markings
  5. 06:30Internal Mechanism and Conversion
  6. 11:12Production Variants and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Steyr M1912/16 Repetierpistole?

The Steyr M1912/16 Repetierpistole is an extremely rare, full-automatic variant of the standard Steyr Hahn M12 pistol, developed during World War I for limited use by the Austro-Hungarian military. It featured a higher capacity magazine and a rapid cyclic rate.

What are the key differences between the Steyr M1912/16 and the standard M12?

The M1912/16 has a 16-round magazine (vs. 8), a fire selector for semi-auto ('1') and full-auto ('16') fire, and internal modifications to enable automatic function. It was also designed for use with a shoulder stock.

What was the production history of the Steyr M1912/16?

Steyr proposed the design in late 1916, receiving an order for 200 units. Production was slow due to wartime conditions, with the first batch delivered in early 1917. Only about 12-15 are believed to survive today.

What is the cyclic rate of the Steyr M1912/16?

The Steyr M1912/16 possesses an exceptionally high cyclic rate of approximately 1200 rounds per minute. This means it can discharge its full 16-round magazine in roughly 0.75 seconds.

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