Ballester Molina 45 ACP Pistol

Published on November 11, 2013
Duration: 11:08

This review covers the Argentine Ballester Molina .45 ACP pistol, a firearm designed by HAFDASA as an alternative to the Colt 1911 A1. It highlights the pistol's compatibility with 1911 parts, design differences like the absence of a grip safety, and its historical significance, including British procurement during WWII. The review also touches on range performance, market value, and field stripping.

Quick Summary

The Ballester Molina is an Argentine .45 ACP pistol designed by HAFDASA, featuring significant parts interchangeability with the Colt 1911. Key differences include the absence of a grip safety and a pivot trigger system. It saw service with British forces in WWII and remains a collectible military surplus firearm.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Shooting
  2. 00:37History and Origin
  3. 01:26Colt 1911 Compatibility
  4. 02:04Design Differences
  5. 03:47Range Performance
  6. 05:40British Procurement & WWII
  7. 06:32Market Value & Variants
  8. 07:25Field Stripping & Internals

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ballester Molina pistol and where did it originate?

The Ballester Molina is a .45 ACP pistol designed and manufactured in Argentina by HAFDASA. It was developed as an alternative to the M1927, which was a licensed copy of the Colt 1911 A1, and production ran from 1938 to 1953.

How compatible is the Ballester Molina with the Colt 1911?

The Ballester Molina was designed to accept standard Colt magazines and features interchangeable parts with the 1911, including the barrel, recoil spring, and barrel bushing, using the same locking system.

What are the key design differences between the Ballester Molina and the Colt 1911?

Key differences include the absence of a grip safety, a more pronounced beaver tail, proprietary grips with different screw alignments, and a pivot trigger system instead of a sliding one, similar to the Spanish Star pistol.

Did the Ballester Molina see service in World War II?

Yes, the British military purchased around 10,000 Ballester Molina pistols during WWII for use by the 8th Army in North Africa and the SOE in Europe. These British-contract models are rare and sought after by collectors.

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