Webley Self-Loading Pistol

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	Weapon: Webley Self-Loading Pistol Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol Country of Origin: United Kingdom Year Adopted: 1915 Caliber: .455 Webley Action: Short Recoil Overall Length (mm): 220.0 Weight (kg): 0.00 Effective Range (m): 50

The Webley Self-Loading Pistol, also known as the Webley & Scott Automatic Pistol, was a semi-automatic handgun designed in the early 20th century by the British arms manufacturer Webley & Scott. This firearm was developed to meet the growing demand for semi-automatic sidearms, offering faster firing and reloading compared to the revolvers traditionally used by British forces. The design incorporated a blowback-operated mechanism, chambered initially in .32 ACP and later in .38 ACP. It featured a single-action trigger, a manual safety, and a removable magazine, making it a reliable and modern sidearm for its time.

Production of the Webley Self-Loading Pistol began in 1910, with several models manufactured for military, police, and civilian markets. Despite its innovative design, the pistol was not adopted as a standard service weapon by the British military, which continued to favor revolvers like the Webley Mk VI. Some models were, however, purchased in small quantities by various colonial police forces and military officers. By the end of its production run in the 1930s, only a few thousand units had been produced, making it a relatively rare firearm compared to other pistols of its era.

The Webley Self-Loading Pistol is notable for being one of the earliest semi-automatic pistols produced in the United Kingdom, showcasing Webley & Scott's ability to adapt to changing firearm trends. While it never achieved widespread adoption or significant notoriety, it holds historical importance as a transitional weapon bridging the gap between revolvers and the more advanced semi-automatic pistols that followed. Today, the Webley Self-Loading Pistol is a sought-after collector's item, appreciated for its craftsmanship and role in the evolution of handgun technology.