Introduced to the market in 1895, the Model 1896 was a refinement of Bergmann's semi-automatic pistol designs, integrating feedback on earlier models to make one of the first commercially successful semi-automatic pistols. Blade front and notch rear sights, with "278" on the left side of the barrel, "crown/crown/U" proofs. "PATENT/BREVETE/S.G.D.G." on the left side of the frame, and the Schilling "mountain man" logo on the right sideplate. Several components have been individually numbered, indicating their place in the takedown sequence for the pistol. With straw colored small parts, niter blue safety, and checkered grips.

Excellent, with 95% plus original blue finish, showing bright edge wear, minor handling marks and a small amount of spotting overall. A small patch of cleaned up, shallow pitting is present on the left side of the frame, partially covered by the thumb safety, 90% of the original straw color is present, and strong niter blue is visible on the safety. Grips are also excellent, with a few light dings. Mechanically excellent.