Stucki: Thuner Pistolenversuche 1892-1900

This book in german language describes the rapid development of self loading pistols in the years between 1892 and 1900. Switzerland was searching for a replacement of the sturdy but out-of-date revolver then. The known designing engineers of these days presented their actual developments to snatch the sought-after contract.

So the Thun trials in the last years of the 19^th century give a good insight into the fast advancing technical development in pistol design. In the beginning Bergmann and Mannlicher were ahead, then Mauser came into play and finally the Parabellum pistol won the race.

Extensive research in the archives allow a detailed insight into all steps of the acceptance pocedure. The historical criteria are valid even today. Of special interest are the color fotos of all mentioned pistols. They show the former collection of Eidgenössische Waffenfabrik and similar items, amongst others the eldest preserved Parabellum pistole at all.

The work of the author Alexander Stucki allows the reader to look over the shoulder of the engineers and the responsable officials as well.

You will not get closer to the pistol development of these days.