Star Model B

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	Weapon: Star Model B Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol Country of Origin: Spain Year Adopted: 1928 Overall Length (mm): 216.0 Overall Length (in): 8.5 Weight (kg): 1.02 Weight (pounds): 2.25

The Star Model B is a Spanish semi-automatic pistol developed by the Star Bonifacio Echeverria company in the early 20th century. Introduced in 1932, the Model B was chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, making it compatible with the widely used round. Its design closely resembled the iconic Colt M1911, though the Model B was not a direct copy. It featured a single-action trigger, a short-recoil tilting barrel mechanism, and an 8-round detachable magazine. The Model B lacked the grip safety of the M1911 but included other refinements tailored to European military and police requirements, making it a robust and reliable service pistol.

Production of the Star Model B continued from 1932 until the 1980s, with various iterations and improvements made over the years. During its production run, tens of thousands of units were manufactured, with significant quantities exported to countries around the world. Notably, during World War II, Germany purchased the Model B in large numbers for use by the Wehrmacht, as it met their need for 9mm sidearms. The pistol was also widely adopted by Spanish military and police forces, and it served as a standard-issue sidearm in several other nations, particularly in Latin America and Eastern Europe.

The Star Model B gained notoriety for its solid construction, reliability, and ergonomic design, earning a reputation as a dependable sidearm in various operational conditions. It became particularly popular among collectors and enthusiasts for its resemblance to the M1911, offering a similar shooting experience in a more affordable and accessible package. While its military service declined by the late 20th century, the Model B remains a symbol of Spanish firearms engineering and a staple in the global history of semi-automatic pistols. Today, the Star Model B is a sought-after firearm for collectors, with historical examples often commanding high prices in the market.