Make: Astra
Model: 300
Serial Number: 611276
Year of Manufacture: 1943
Caliber: 7.65mm Browning (.32 ACP)
Action Type: Single-Action Semi-Automatic Pistol fed by Detachable Magazine
Barrel Length: 3 3/4"
Sights/ Optics: There is a blade fixed to the front of the slide and a "U"-notch integral to the rear of the slide.
Stock/ Grip Configuration & Condition: The grip panels are two-piece checkered wood. The right panel has a nick near the top and a few other more minor marks. The left panel has a small crack at the magazine catch. The checkering is well defined. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original, numbers match.
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates about 9/10.
Overall Condition: The gun retains about 95% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at most edges. There are a few scattered minor nicks and scratches. There are some scattered spots of light surface oxidation, mostly on the slide. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, the pistol is in Very Good-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: This pistol comes with a single 7-round .32 magazine, one 6-round .380 magazine and a black leather flap holster.
Our Assessment: The Astra 300 was a compact handgun made by the Spanish company Unceta y Compania from 1923 until 1946. Similar in many aspects to the standard issue Astra 400, also remembered as the Model 1921, the gun had a compact frame and was chambered for either .32 or .380 ACP. The gun saw extensive use throughout the Spanish security services and military. During the Spanish Civil War, German forces sent as part of the Condor Legion to support the fascist military coup were also impressed by the stalwart little handgun. During WWII, Germany placed substantial orders for the Astra 300 which were delivered between 1941-1944. The handgun was ultimately superseded in 1946 and gradually retired in Spain, while the German stockpile was captured by Allied forces as WWII came to an end.
This particular example is a commercial gun chambered for .32 ACP, manufactured just as Astra began to supply these handguns to the Third Reich. The gun is in Very Good-plus condition, retaining the great majority of its original finish, a strong bore, good mechanics, and matching serialized parts. For collectors of Spanish guns or pocket autos, this is a neat find. It should also still prove to be a fun .32 for recreational shooting. Good luck on your bid!
