Astra 400 pistol

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	Weapon: Astra 400 pistol Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol Country of Origin: Spain Year Adopted: 1921 Caliber: 9mm Largo Action: Blow Back Semi-Automatic Overall Length (mm): 220.0 Weight (kg): 1.00 Effective Range (m): 50

The Astra 400 is a Spanish semi-automatic pistol designed in the early 1920s by weapons manufacturer Astra-Unceta y Cia. Its design reflects the need for a robust and reliable service pistol, chambered for the 9mm Largo cartridge but capable of firing other similar cartridges in an emergency. The pistol features a simple blowback mechanism, a fixed barrel, and a distinctive cylindrical shape, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics. It has a single-action trigger and an eight-round magazine capacity.

Production of the Astra 400 began in 1921, with over 106,000 units manufactured by the time production ceased in 1946. It served as the standard-issue sidearm for the Spanish military and police forces during a tumultuous period in Spanish history, including the Spanish Civil War. The pistol was favored for its durability and ability to function reliably under harsh conditions, though its weight and recoil were often criticized by users.

The Astra 400 gained notoriety for its widespread use during the Spanish Civil War, often appearing in the hands of both Nationalist and Republican forces. Its versatility in chambering various ammunition types made it popular in regions with limited access to standardized cartridges. Today, the Astra 400 is remembered as a rugged and historically significant sidearm, sought after by collectors for its connection to 20th-century Spanish military history.