Chinese Warlord Pistols: The Huge Shanxi .45 ACP Broomhandle

Published on June 17, 2021
Duration: 11:20

This review details the Shanxi Type 17, a large .45 ACP variant of the Mauser C96 produced in China's Warlord Era. It highlights the pistol's unique caliber choice for logistical simplicity, its robust Taiyuan Arsenal manufacturing quality, and distinct loading mechanism. The Shanxi Type 17 is noted for its collector value due to its rarity and high-quality construction.

Quick Summary

The Shanxi Type 17 is a rare Chinese .45 ACP variant of the Mauser C96 Broomhandle, produced by the Taiyuan Arsenal during the Warlord Era (approx. 1928-1932). Its .45 ACP caliber simplified logistics by matching Thompson submachine guns, and it features unique hammer-actuated bolt hold-open.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Shanxi Type 17 .45 ACP
  2. 00:50Historical Context: Chinese Warlord Era
  3. 01:55Logistics: Why .45 ACP?
  4. 03:34Size Comparison & Taiyuan Arsenal
  5. 05:44Mechanical Features & Loading
  6. 07:13Production Variations & Markings
  7. 09:52Collector Value & Quality

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Shanxi Type 17 pistol?

The Shanxi Type 17 is a large Chinese copy of the Mauser C96 Broomhandle pistol, uniquely chambered in .45 ACP. It was produced by the Taiyuan Arsenal during China's Warlord Era, specifically around 1928-1932.

Why was the Shanxi Type 17 made in .45 ACP?

Shanxi province chose .45 ACP for their pistols to simplify ammunition logistics. This allowed them to use the same ammunition for their domestically produced Thompson submachine guns and their sidearms.

What makes the Shanxi Type 17 unique compared to a Mauser C96?

The Shanxi Type 17 is significantly larger due to its .45 ACP chambering. Mechanically, its bolt is held open by the hammer during loading, preventing 'Mouser thumb', unlike the standard C96.

How was the Shanxi Type 17 loaded?

The Shanxi Type 17 features a fixed magazine that is loaded using two five-round stripper clips, similar to some other Broomhandle variants. The capacity is typically 10 rounds.

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