JoLoAr .45 ACP One-Hand-Cocking Pistol

Published on November 22, 2016
Duration: 8:46

This expert review by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons details the rare JoLoAr .45 ACP pistol, highlighting its unique one-handed cocking lever patented by Jose Lopez Arnaiz. The video showcases the pistol's simple blowback action, tip-up barrel, and lack of a trigger guard, providing historical context on its manufacturing in Eibar, Spain, and its uncommon chambering in .45 ACP compared to smaller calibers. McCollum's deep knowledge of obscure firearms and their historical significance is evident throughout the presentation.

Quick Summary

The JoLoAr .45 ACP pistol is a rare firearm distinguished by its unique 'palanca' or one-handed cocking lever, patented by Jose Lopez Arnaiz. Manufactured in Eibar, Spain, by Hijos de Calixto Arrizabalaga, it features a simple blowback action, a tip-up barrel, and lacks a trigger guard. While smaller calibers were more common due to a Peruvian police contract, the .45 ACP variant is particularly sought after by collectors.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the JoLoAr .45 ACP
  2. 00:33History and the Palanca Lever
  3. 01:13Manufacturing and Partnership
  4. 02:23Calibers and Peruvian Contract
  5. 04:04Mechanical Operation
  6. 05:36Tip-Up Barrel and Sights
  7. 06:42Magazine and Markings

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the unique feature of the JoLoAr pistol?

The JoLoAr pistol is distinguished by its innovative 'palanca' or one-handed cocking lever, patented by Jose Lopez Arnaiz. This mechanism allows the user to cycle the slide and chamber a round using only one hand, a significant advantage in certain operational contexts.

Why is the JoLoAr .45 ACP considered rare?

The .45 ACP variant of the JoLoAr pistol is rare because most production focused on smaller calibers like .25 Auto, .380 ACP, and 9mm Largo. These smaller calibers were more common due to a substantial purchase by the Peruvian Mounted Police. The .45 ACP version represents a less common adaptation.

What are some notable design characteristics of the JoLoAr .45 ACP?

The JoLoAr .45 ACP features a simple blowback action, a tip-up barrel inherited from the Sharpshooter design, a heel magazine release, and notably, it lacks a trigger guard. The rear sight on .45 and 9mm models is mounted on the barrel.

Who manufactured the JoLoAr pistol?

The JoLoAr pistol was a collaboration between Jose Lopez Arnaiz, who patented the 'palanca' lever, and Hijos de Calixto Arrizabalaga in Eibar, Spain. Arrizabalaga produced the base pistols, and Arnaiz integrated his lever mechanism before sale.

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