Argentine Ballester Molina 45 ACP

Published on March 3, 2018
Duration: 18:47

This video provides a comprehensive review of the Argentine Ballester Molina pistol in .45 ACP. The presenter highlights its historical context as an early Argentine service pistol produced between 1938 and 1958, noting its visual similarities to the 1911 but emphasizing its proprietary design. The review covers shooting impressions, reliability observations with various ammunition and magazines, and discusses its historical significance, including its use by the British SOE.

Quick Summary

The Argentine Ballester Molina is a vintage .45 ACP service pistol produced from 1938-1958, serving as a 1911 alternative with proprietary parts. Notably, some models with a 'B' prefix were issued to the British SOE in WWII. Older examples may require maintenance like a new recoil spring due to age-related stoppages.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Initial Shots
  2. 00:50Ballester Molina Overview & History
  3. 01:51Design Differences from 1911
  4. 02:21Trigger System & Internal Workings
  5. 02:55Reliability Issues & Age
  6. 03:02Military & Police Service
  7. 03:31Magazine Compatibility (Vintage vs. Modern)
  8. 04:01Shooting with Browning Ammunition
  9. 04:15Shooting with Modern Magazines
  10. 05:08Shooting with Modern Magazines (Continued)
  11. 06:45Failure to Feed with Chip McCormick Mags
  12. 07:23Shooting Freedom Munitions Ammunition
  13. 08:07Shooting Winchester PDX Defender
  14. 10:51Shooting Browning BXPX Ammunition
  15. 11:16WWII Context & 1911 Comparison
  16. 11:29Price & Availability
  17. 11:46Steel Origin Theories
  18. 12:25Serial Numbers & British SOE Connection
  19. 13:29Fun Shooting Session Wrap-up
  20. 14:08BXPX vs. Ball Ammo Recoil Comparison
  21. 15:04Recoil Spring Recommendation
  22. 16:29Recoil Spring Issue Demonstration
  23. 16:51Recoil Spring Replacement Advice
  24. 17:35Conclusion & Channel Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Argentine Ballester Molina pistol?

The Argentine Ballester Molina is a vintage semi-automatic pistol chambered in .45 ACP, produced in Argentina between 1938 and 1958. It served as an early Argentine service pistol and is known for its similarities to the 1911, though it features proprietary components and a distinct design lineage.

How does the Ballester Molina compare to the 1911?

While visually similar to the 1911, the Ballester Molina is not a direct copy. It shares only barrels and magazines with the 1911; other parts are proprietary. Its design draws more inspiration from Star pistols, featuring different grip panels, cocking serrations, and an internal trigger mechanism.

Were any Ballester Molina pistols used by Allied forces in WWII?

Yes, a significant number of Ballester Molina pistols with a 'B' serial number prefix were issued to the British SOE (Special Operations Executive) during World War II. These were used to arm agents operating behind enemy lines, allowing them to conceal their British affiliation.

What are common issues with older Ballester Molina pistols?

Older Ballester Molina pistols, like the one reviewed, may exhibit reliability issues due to age, such as stoppages. A common maintenance need is a replacement recoil spring, as a worn spring can prevent the slide from fully returning to battery, which was observed in this video.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Iraqveteran8888

View all →