A few years back I inherited several guns from my Uncles gun collection. One of those being the one in question. The pistol itself has very few markings, and as far as I can tell does not have manufacturer or caliber on the gun. I took into a local gun shop where I was told that it is a .38 super, by unknown manufacturer, possibly Mexican, possibly Star. Just poking around the internet, from what I can find it looks like a .38 super, Llama model VII or VIII. But, still not sure. I have attached some digital photos of the pistol and was wondering if anyone out there can let me know what I have? What it's worth? I would appreciate any help!! Thanks.
Not Exactly Sure What I've Got??
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Are there any proof marks on it?
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What is puzzling is the grip safety - that is unusual for a Spanish piece. On the right side of the frame right behind the serial number is an oval - this is the exact location where Llama (Gabilondo y Cia) would have an oval mark with a stylized "GC" in it. Looking real close at the oval on this piece, I can almost believe I see the faint trace of a GC, but can't swear to it. If this is true, and the serial number range of 24,000 would place it in the late 1920s to early 1930s. Plus the patent date and all on the slide legend show it was definately intended for a US or British market. One other thing - if this is an early Llama Extra, it is 9mm Largo - not 38 Super.
Bob, thanks. I didn't know that the 9mm Largo and the 38 super were that similar in size. When I went to the gun shop they took the gun apart and tested different calibers to see which shell would seat correctly in the barrel. They tried a 9mm (I assume standard) and it was to small, so the assumption was .38 super since it seated. I will now try the same with the 9mm Largo shell, though I'm sure by looking at dimentions it should fit as well. Just want to make sure I've got correct ammo prior to touching the trigger. I've never ran accross a pistol that had so few markings. Do you know of any reason for omissions? Any other information would be great!!
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Supposedly the British ordered some of the Llama pistols, but I know nothing about it - a fellow researching British arms brought that fact to my attention. Maybe this is one of them!
Took pistol to gunsmith, to see if I needed to have a cast made of chamber. He took gun apart and said that (without making cast) that it was a 9mm Largo. Said shells would be hard to find. He said that 38 Auto Colt's would work, but hard to find as well. Are there any respectable places to order on line, or store near St. Louis area to purchase?
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SARCO still has it in stock; I normally sell some at the local St. Louis gunshows.
Check out this thread for info on 9mm Largo ammo availability:
http://forums.gunboards.com/showthread.php?t=79355
http://forums.gunboards.com/showthread.php?t=79355
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