BSA's Experimental .34 Caliber Pistols

Published on September 18, 2015
Duration: 8:44

This expert-level review from Forgotten Weapons examines two rare BSA experimental pistols from circa 1919-1920, one in .34 Belton and the other converted to .32 ACP. The pistols, mechanically based on the FN Model 1922, showcase BSA's post-WWI efforts to innovate with new belted cartridge technology, though the project ultimately failed due to ammunition rarity. The review details unique design features like the firing pin ejector and grip safety, highlighting the prototypes' developmental nature and historical significance.

Quick Summary

BSA experimental pistols, developed around 1919-1920, were rare prototypes in .34 Belton and .32 ACP calibers, based on the FN Model 1922 design. They featured innovative belted cartridges and hold-open devices, but the project failed primarily due to the extreme rarity of the .34 Belton ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction and Location
  2. 00:15BSA Experimental Pistols Overview
  3. 00:43Calibers and Previous Model
  4. 00:56BSA's Post-WWI Situation
  5. 01:43New Ammunition and Belted Cases
  6. 02:17Belted Cases in Pistols
  7. 02:40Specific Calibers and Ammunition Availability
  8. 02:58Pistol Modifications and Differences
  9. 03:26Visual Differences: Slide Scalloping
  10. 03:48Mechanical Design: FN 1922 Copy
  11. 04:04Hold-Open Functionality Issues
  12. 04:47Grips and Grip Safety
  13. 05:28Manual Safety and Hold-Open
  14. 05:42Firing Pin as Ejector
  15. 06:03Ergonomics and Feel
  16. 06:19.34 Caliber Chamber Detail
  17. 06:41Magazine Differences
  18. 07:21Condition of Pistols
  19. 07:44Conclusion and Auction Info

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the BSA experimental pistols?

The BSA experimental pistols are rare prototypes manufactured by Birmingham Small Arms (BSA) around 1919-1920. They were an attempt to create new market potential using innovative belted cartridge technology, with only three known examples existing.

What calibers were the BSA experimental pistols chambered in?

The two pistols featured were in .34 Belton caliber and .32 ACP caliber. A .45 Auto version was also previously seen, indicating a broader development program by BSA.

What is the mechanical design of the BSA experimental pistols?

Mechanically, these BSA pistols are copies of the FN Model 1922, operating on a semi-automatic, straight blowback principle. They incorporate unique features like hold-open devices on empty magazines.

Why did the BSA experimental pistol project fail?

The project largely failed due to the extreme rarity of the specialized .34 Belton ammunition. Without readily available ammunition, the firearms had no market potential, despite their innovative design.

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