Type Semi-automatic pistol In service 1943–1945 Wars World War II | Place of origin Spain Used by See Users Manufacturer Astra-Unceta y Cia SA | |
The Astra 600 was a Spanish semi-automatic pistol used during World War II. It was a shortened version of the Astra 400 in 9×19mm Parabellum.
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History
The gun was made in Spain for Germany during World War II, and about 60,000 pistols were made, although only the first 10,500 were delivered before the liberation of France cut off the supply lines between Spain and Germany. The remaining pistols were primarily sold after the war to West Germany for police use, with a smaller number being purchased by the Portuguese Navy. The gun was rugged and of high quality and accuracy, despite the blowback operation of the gun and heavy weight, it gave a snappy, distinct recoil. Because of its ruggedness and weight, it was in some countries nicknamed "the pipewrench".