Dreyse m1907

Go Back to Semi-Automatic Pistol

Go Back To Weapons Home

	Weapon: Dreyse m1907 Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol Country of Origin: Germany Year Adopted: 1907 Caliber: .32 ACP Action: Short Recoil Overall Length (mm): 164.0 Weight (kg): 0.00 Effective Range (m): 25

The Dreyse M1907 was a semi-automatic pistol designed by Louis Schmeisser and produced by the Rheinische Metallwaren- und Maschinenfabrik (RM&M), also known as Dreyse, in Germany. Introduced in 1907, it was chambered for the .32 ACP (7.65x17mm) cartridge, a popular choice for compact handguns of the era. The pistol featured a blowback-operated mechanism with a fixed barrel and a unique internal striker for firing. Its design prioritized simplicity and reliability, making it a practical choice for both civilian and military use. The M1907 had a distinctive rectangular shape and a top ejection port, giving it a somewhat unconventional yet functional appearance.

Production of the Dreyse M1907 began in 1907 and continued until 1915, with an estimated 250,000 units manufactured. Initially marketed to civilians and law enforcement, the pistol gained greater prominence during World War I, where it was issued as a secondary weapon to German officers and non-commissioned officers. Its relatively lightweight design and dependable operation made it a suitable sidearm for trench warfare and other military contexts. Despite its straightforward construction, the M1907 was considered durable and well-suited for the challenges of wartime use, further solidifying its reputation as a reliable weapon.

The Dreyse M1907 earned notoriety as one of the many pistols issued to German forces during World War I, though it was overshadowed by larger and more advanced designs like the Luger P08. Its compact size and ease of use contributed to its popularity among officers and civilians alike. After the war, the pistol became a collector's item due to its historical significance and association with early 20th-century firearm innovation. Today, the Dreyse M1907 is remembered as a practical and robust pistol that served its purpose effectively during a transformative period in small arms history.