This is a rare example of an early Steyr/Mannlicher self-loading, "blow-forward" Model 1894 pistol Serial Number "28". These early Mannlicher pistols were all designed by Ferdinand von Mannlicher and were produced by the Austrian Steyr factory. Von Mannlicher was an exceptional early engineer and designer who teamed with the Steyr factory to produce all of his rifle and pistols from the late 1890s on. This example is actually one of the rare large frame pistols that has the internal magazine that loaded through the top of the action via stripper clips. The other unique design feature is that the barrel actually slides forward during the firing/cycling of the pistol, hence the collector name of a "blow-forward" pistol. Then when the barrel returns into battery (e.g. when the barrel is moving reward after firing), the barrel strips off and chambers a new cartridge from the internal magazine. It is also a double action mechanism with a rebounding hammer, i.e. when a cartridge is inside the chamber and with the hammer down, you just pull the trigger as in the double action mode, just like pistols today. Very unique for 1894. The top of the barrel and left side of the receiver are stamped with serial number "28". Usually when you remove the left side all the internal parts are numbered accordingly and matching to the frame and barrel. However, in the case of this pistol the various parts are unnumbered except for the front edge of the frame (under the side plate) and side plate itself, both of which are numbered "27". Obviously, these are assembly numbers and not related to the pistol serial number. They just happen to be close to each other. It is fitted with a set of checkered walnut grips. It has a rust blued finish with straw color small parts and case colors on the trigger and hammer.

Excellent with 95% plus of the original blue finish overall with edge and high spot wear. The grips are in very fine condition with nice, distinct checkering on both sides showing light wear across the checkering. Mechanically excellent. A really nice high condition, early Steyr Model 1894 semi-automatic pistol .