Make: Esperanza y Unceta "Astra"

Model: 1915 "Ruby"

Serial Number: 87896

Year of Manufacture: 1915-1926 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: .32 ACP (7.65x17mm Browning)

Action Type: Semi-automatic, single action, detachable heel-release magazine

Barrel Length: 3.5"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a v-notch dovetailed into the slide.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood. The panels show light scuffs and moderate handling wear. There is a crack on the lower left panel. The grips rate in Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp with light fouling. There is faint erosion throughout the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8.5/10.

Overall Condition: This firearm retains about 80% of it's original finish. The finish shows thinning, holster wear, and patina. The markings are clear and complete. The screw heads show little to no tooling and retain turnable slots. Overall, this firearm rates in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: One 9rd magazine

Our Assessment: This French military-accepted Esperanza y Unceta Astra Model 1915 "Ruby" was manufactured between 1915 and 1926 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic firearm. Produced by Esperanza y Unceta in Spain, the Ruby-type pistols were developed to meet France's urgent demand for sidearms during World War I. France contracted with numerous Spanish manufacturers to supplement its domestic pistol production, and military-accepted examples remain historically significant as representative service pistols of the First World War. The Astra-produced variants are among the better-regarded Ruby pistols due to their quality of manufacture and reliability.

Chambered in .32 ACP, the Model 1915 utilizes a simple blowback-operated action well suited for military and personal defense use. Compact dimensions and dependable operation made the Ruby an effective sidearm for French officers, support troops, and specialized personnel throughout the war and into the interwar period. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8.5 out of 10, indicating strong rifling with moderate, honest use. The action functions correctly.

The grips rate in Good condition with handling wear appropriate for their age. Approximately 80% of the original finish remains, exhibiting honest thinning and edge wear while maintaining an attractive military appearance. Overall, this firearm rates in Very Good condition and represents a desirable French military-accepted Astra Model 1915 "Ruby," offering strong historical appeal to collectors of World War I military sidearms. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!