This is another rare early Steyr-Mannlicher designed pistol that we have to offer for sale. This pistol is actually called the Model 1896/03 due to the fact that it was originally developed in 1896 (at the same time the 1896 Mauser pistol was) however it was not commercially introduced on to the market until approximately 1903. This variation is fairly unique in that it has the rare 6 inch long barrel and is fitted with the desirable detachable magazine box with the rare slotted back strap, obviously intended to be developed as a substitute for a short rifle, like the Mauser and Luger pistol carbines. This design actually allows the pistol to be loaded with strippers just like the rest of the Mannlicher rifle and pistol designs, as well as in this example just removing the detachable magazine. These early Mannlicher pistols also have several other unique features such as a barrel that screwed into an upper receiver, vs the one-piece design of the 1896 Mauser, it has an internal hammer with a small short external cocking indicator on the rear of the pistol. The front sight and front sight base are actually a complete separate unit that is secured to the barrel via a key on top of the barrel, that has an adjustable rear sight graduated from 50-200 meters with the rear sight base actually machined directly into the top rear section of the upper receiver. The left side of the barrel, the barrel extension, magazine, both grips and trigger are all correctly numbered "477". The left side of the barrel and barrel extension, frame and breech bolt are all proofed with the early "Double Crown/U" proofmark. It is fitted with a set of checkered walnut grips

Very fine with 75% of the original faded blue overall mixed with some light wear and thinning on the edges mixed with scattered extensive surface rust overall. Mechanically excellent. A very unique and certainly early example of a scarce Model 1896 Steyr-Mannlicher pistol.