Astra 900 Bob?

gun runner john
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(9/28/02 4:10:16 pm)
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I am about to make a deal on an Astra 900, and I don't find any detailed stripping instructions in any of my books. Anyone have something on this gun? I'm thinking Bob much have at least one of these.


Bob In St Louis
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Posts: 2988
(9/28/02 7:23:20 pm)
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Yup - got a couple of them. I'll have to see what I can dig up. They look like the Broomhandle on the outside, but are actually a less complex design internally. I should have a diagram somewhere ----

Let me know some details on it when you get it - there were a couple different changes over time, such as in the legend script on the side.
Crusty Cruffler of Fine Spanish Pistols - Eibar Rules!

gun runner john
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Posts: 661
(9/29/02 12:20:58 pm)
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Well, I was told that the legend is:

ASTRA AUTOMATIC PISTOL CAL 7.63, PATENTED JULY 12, 1928, Ser. 16xxx

It's supposed to be better than 80% original finish, slight pitting on one side, excellent bore, and I'm paying $500 for it. I have a couple of pictures that seem to support the general condition. That seems pretty low for one in this condition, what am I missing?



Bob In St Louis
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Posts: 2997
(9/29/02 4:10:56 pm)
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That is the second variation - two line address, found on pistols from serial #12,000 to #20,000.

This was changed to a three line address after #20,000, and those prior to #12,000 had a one line address.

I wonder if it has been reworked/reblued? Otherwise, sounds like you are getting a good deal!
Crusty Cruffler of Fine Spanish Pistols - Eibar Rules!

kdub01
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Posts: 1188
(9/29/02 7:32:42 pm)
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500 bucks - FOR POT METAL???????
"Keep Off The Ridgeline"

Bob In St Louis
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Posts: 2999
(9/29/02 7:43:43 pm)
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Ah, but it is rare and mighty fine potmetal!
Crusty Cruffler of Fine Spanish Pistols - Eibar Rules!

gun runner john
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Posts: 664
(9/30/02 8:11:15 am)
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Well, I'm going to call and finalize the deal and ask the same questions in person, just to make sure there are no misunderstandings.


TallTLynn
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(9/30/02 8:56:45 am)
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ezSupporter
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kdub - one man's potmetal is another man's prize.

Hope it's what you are looking for gun runner john.

Bob In St Louis
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Posts: 3011
(10/2/02 5:28:13 am)
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John - I'm still looking - haven't had time to dig through the dusty ol' pile in the back corner yet ---
Crusty Cruffler of Fine Spanish Pistols - Eibar Rules!

gun runner john
*TFF Staff*
Posts: 666
(10/4/02 8:00:45 am)
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No sweat, I don't have the gun yet, but my money is on it's way.


Bob In St Louis
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Posts: 3017
(10/4/02 8:09:38 am)
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The diagram and dissassembly instructions are in the mail to you!
Crusty Cruffler of Fine Spanish Pistols - Eibar Rules!

gun runner john
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Posts: 669
(10/7/02 5:29:13 pm)
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Bob, got the instructions, looks good. Thanks, now all I need is the gun. I figure I'll call him tomorrow to make sure he has the money and the gun is on the way.


Bob In St Louis
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Posts: 3054
(10/8/02 5:39:53 am)
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Good deal - hope it is a fine acquisition!
Crusty Cruffler of Fine Spanish Pistols - Eibar Rules!

gun runner john
*TFF Staff*
Posts: 670
(10/10/02 6:45:24 pm)
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Getting warmer, got an email with a UPS tracking number!


gun runner john
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Posts: 678
(10/17/02 10:30:31 am)
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Well, I got the Astra, it wasn't quite as advertised. It does appear to be all original, and the original finish has turned plum, which is fine, and it's indeed 70-80%. The bore is a disappointment, it's completely smooth! On the brighter side, I talked to the seller and got a $75 adjustment in the price, since it wasn't as represented. The only problem is, if I want to shoot this, I'll have to do something about the barrel.

Is there a source for stuff like springs for these guns? I did a search but didn't turn up anything. If I shoot it someday, I think I'd like to have a new recoil spring at least...

Bob In St Louis
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Posts: 3108
(10/17/02 11:17:38 am)
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You might check with Federal Arms Corporation (FAC) for the parts - I'll keep looking for other sources.

Sounds like you got at least one of the better Chinese surplus ones. Most of them have a poor to fair exterior with a smooth bore. The Chinese Warlords didn't care much for arms maintenance, and when the communists took over, they just threw them in the back corner of a warehouse and forgot about them.
Crusty Cruffler of Fine Spanish Pistols - Eibar Rules!

gun runner john
*TFF Staff*
Posts: 679
(10/17/02 4:16:17 pm)
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Here's my Astra 900. Getting it a little cheaper didn't hurt my feelings too much, I'd have sent it back if there wasn't some allowance...



kdub01
*TFF Senior Staff*
Posts: 1322
(10/17/02 5:03:32 pm)
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Hey, Gun Runner -

Looks like it would make a handy club, if'n you ran outa' buddits!
"Keep Off The Ridgeline"

gun runner john
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Posts: 681
(10/17/02 6:14:31 pm)
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It is big enough to do some damage!