Rast & Gasser Model 1898 - Wrapping up the Austro-Hungarian Sub-Collection

[USMA-82]

Finally picked up this little baby after having it on hold for a while. File it under the "so ugly it's beautiful" category, but you can't argue with the quality manufacture or the neat features.

For example, when you pull back the loading gate, it disables the hammer, but not the trigger. Then, every time you pull back the trigger, the cylinder revolves to allow loading the next round. Same when unloading - every time you pull the trigger, the cylinder lines up perfectly to use the ejection rod to remove empty cases. Close the loading gate, and it functions as normal (double or single action).

For those of you not familiar with the model, here's the link with some great info:

http://www.hungariae.com/Gass98.htm

At the end are some pictures of the rest of the "Sub-Collection", along with a group photo.

Enjoy!

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A view of the internal works - frame side gate opens like the French 1892:

A closer look:

Steyr Hahn Model 1912:

Roth Steyr Model 1907:

Frommer Stop:

Femaru 37M:

Group picture:

Yes, I did find a source for 8mm Gasser ammo, and it's on the way. Can't wait to hit the range.

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[PATRON]

Now, that is what I call some nice gun porn.

 

[majspud]

Now that's a collection of little-knowns.

I know where there is a Femaru holster if you're interested.

MS

 

[USMA-82]

I know where there is a Femaru holster if you're interested.

MS

Got one on Ebay recently, thanks! Now, if you know where I can get an original holster for the Roth or the Hahn for cheap, I'm all ears! Actually, there are some decent-looking repro's out there now if I decide to get them.

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[JuergenG]

Very nice!
It's 10,000 earlier than mine, which has a Wn.18 (Vienna 1918) proof.
The "ML" mark on the barrel stands for "Molybdenum Steel", but you probably know that anyway.

 

[NinerMaine]

That is a fine gun and an impressive collection.

 

[50 BMG]

All I can say is WOW!!!!!!!!!!!! Ken you have outdone yourself. Very very nice collection sir.

 

[Marcus99]

Did you ever get to shoot the Gasser? Always thought it was a neat turn of the century era revolver and wondered how they shot. I'd probably pick one up if I had the money and a 1879 Reichsrevolver wasn't ahead on my list.

Now, if you know where I can get an original holster for the Roth or the Hahn for cheap, I'm all ears!

The Steyr Hahn holsters are definitely out there. I know Collectible Firearms in Merrimack had a Chilean rig but I don't know if the holster was correct. I imagine finding one for the Roth is going to be much more difficult.

 

[ARV]

Its not uggly, though it might come in handy for checking right angles.

 

[USMA-82]

Did you ever get to shoot the Gasser?

Yup - found some ammo and had a chance to shoot it. Very gentle recoil (it's a relatively heavy gun) and reasonable accurate for a military pistol. It may not work as a carry gun, but it's definitely a conversation-starter! Most people are fascinated by the ability to "expose the guts" by swinging open the frame gate.

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[Rate_of_Twist]

Its awesome you a have a whole collection of pistols Ive never seen one of! very nice!

 

[JuergenG]

Are you missing a German marked P.37 (u) in .32 or is this in the German dept. of the collection?

 

[USMA-82]

Are you missing a German marked P.37 (u) in .32 or is this in the German dept. of the collection?

Must be in the German Department. I'll check next time I'm in that part of the warehouse!

 

[JuergenG]

I'll check next time I'm in that part of the warehouse!

Sounds good