Llama M82: Gabilondo Copies the Beretta (But More Complicated)

Published on May 22, 2023
Duration: 14:13

Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons provides an in-depth look at the Llama M82, a Spanish service pistol developed in the late 1970s/early 1980s. While mechanically a copy of the Beretta 92, it features an enclosed slide and a more complex internal design. The M82 entered Spanish army service in 1987, replacing older Star pistols, and its production concluded around 1997.

Quick Summary

The Llama M82 is a Spanish 9mm service pistol by Gabilondo y Cia, developed in the late 1970s/early 1980s. It's a mechanical copy of the Beretta 92 but features an enclosed slide and a more complex internal design. It entered Spanish army service in 1987 and production ceased around 1997.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Llama M82
  2. 00:48Development and Military Trials
  3. 02:04Basic Features and Magazine
  4. 03:11Safety Mechanisms
  5. 03:48Markings and Serial Numbers
  6. 05:11Disassembly and Internal Mechanics
  7. 06:45Barrel and Locking Block Comparison
  8. 08:33Frame Complexity
  9. 11:15Proof Marks and Service History

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Llama M82 and who made it?

The Llama M82 is a Spanish service pistol manufactured by Gabilondo y Cia. The 'Llama' trademark was acquired in 1932. Gabilondo was a prominent Spanish handgun maker alongside Star and Astra.

How does the Llama M82 compare mechanically to the Beretta 92?

The Llama M82 is essentially a mechanical copy of the Beretta 92, utilizing a similar falling locking block system. However, it features an enclosed slide and its internal components, particularly the locking blocks, are not interchangeable due to width differences.

What were the key features of the Llama M82 service pistol?

The Llama M82 is a steel-framed, double-action, hammer-fired 9mm pistol. It boasts a 15-round double-stack magazine (interchangeable with Beretta 92, but with a magazine safety tab) and a slide-mounted ambidextrous safety/decocker.

When did the Llama M82 enter Spanish military service and when was it produced?

The Llama M82 entered Spanish army service in 1987, replacing Star 9mm pistols. Production of the M82 concluded around 1997, as the Spanish military began transitioning to the H&K USP.

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