WW2 Spanish Astra Model 600/43 Deactivated Service Pistol

In 1943 the German government requested Unceta y Cia redesign the Astra 400 to fire the 9×19mm Parabellum cartridge. In late 1943, fifty examples of the newly designed Astra 600 were sent to Germany and were approved for issue to German armed forces, receiving the designation Pistole Astra 600/43. Approximately 50,000 were ordered by Germany, with the first delivery of 2,950 pistols taking place on 16 May 1944. A second shipment of 5,000 pistols reached Germany on 23 June, and a final shipment of 2,500 pistols were shipped to Germany on 16 July 1944. Supply to Germany stopped when German occupation of the border between Spain and France ceased and supply lines were cut. The Astra 600s that could not be delivered to the German government during World War II were then stored by the Spanish government. Small quantities of pistols were sold to Turkey, Portugal, Chile, and Costa Rica until 1951.

This model of deactivated service pistol is one of the models that was not supplied to Germany, but later sold to Chile and is marked for the Chilean Air Force to the left side of the barrel housing above the trigger guard, and marked EUERZA AEREA DE CHILE below the air force symbol. Marked to the top left back of the action, 'ASTRA MODEL 600/43 9 m/m PARABELLUM, MADE IN SPAIN, and UNCETA Y COMPANIA S.A. to the opposite side. Proof marked to the back of the frame and back of the barrel along with being stamped to the exposed potion of the bolt. Matching serial numbers throughout with the correct issue magazine in place. 2 piece checkered wood grip panels with a small steel lanyard to the bottom of the butt next to the mag. Current spec deactivation with no moving parts other than the safety switch on the left side of the frame, and the grip safety. Non-removeable magazine in place.  Grips are in very good condition showing only light wear and use, with the pistol retaining almost all of the original blued finish that has thinned in some areas and with some expected handling marks being present. Quality deactivation with all welds being to the interior and with no external welds. No access to the internal parts, and does not, and cannot be made to accept ammunition of any kind.  SKU: 63006  DEACTIVATED. NO PAL RQUIRED. CANADIAN SALES ONLY.