Manufactured in 1940, the Astra Model 903 was the Spanish answer to the Mauser "Schnellfeuer", a Broomhandle-type pistol with selective fire capabilities. The 903 was marketed with an eye towards private security and second-line military forces, the latter in a role comparable to the modern personal defense weapon concept. Among other buyers, the full-auto Astra was popular in China, where it was actively sought out by regional ''warlord'' forces, as well as both sides of the Nationalist/Communist conflict. Blade front and 1000-meter tangent rear sights, with a series of repeating "P in bomb" proofs on the barrel, receiver and frame, the three-line Astra address on the side plate, and the "LL" proof date on the right side. The selector switch is positioned on the right side just behind the trigger, with "1" for semi-automatic and "20" for full automatic, with a "bulls-eye" pattern magazine catch (the included magazine is an altered Mauser). A fine niter blue finish is present on the small parts, with a set of 12-groove hardwood grips numbered to match and a lanyard ring. A hardwood stock holster is included.

Very fine, with 70% of the original blue finish, showing a gray patina on the edges and grip straps, a few small areas of pitting, and mild handling marks overall. The niter blue is bright and strong, with some fading on the high points and bearing surfaces. The grips are good as cleaned and revarnished, with some dents and chips. The stock has been heavily cleaned, with a 2 inch extension spliced between the non-matching iron and main body, and some cracks. The magazine needs adjustment, otherwise mechanically good. NOTE: This item is restricted as a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) that is classified as a "Curios or Relic" as defined in 27 CFR, 478.11. These weapons are still subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 478.