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Swiss 1882 and 1929 Revolver comparison
So I thought I would do a bit of a comparison between the Swiss 1882 and 1929 revolvers. When the 1882 revolver was first developed it was one of the most modern revolvers in the world, even remaining more relevant than later designs *cough* 1895 Nagant *cough*. In 1900 the Swiss adopted the Luger, however they decided to still keep using the 1882 revolvers simply due to the fact it cost 1/3 the cost of a Luger. They just issued the 1882 to officers who wouldn't be likely in combat but still needed to have some sort of weapon (i.e. supply, etc.). In the late 20s the Swiss were looking to simplify there service arms to make them as inexpensive as possible (as Swiss service arms in general are always expensive). The results were the 1929 Luger, 1929 Revolver, and the K31.
Overall I would say the 1929 is definitely a cheaper arm. It has some improvements (stronger frame, cheaper, easier to manufacture), but the quality isn't nearly as high as the 1882. Holding it, the 1929 is also much more 'squarish' than the 1882 and doesn't fit as nicely in your hand. That doesn't mean it is ineffective, simply that it isn't as nice. Well in any case here is some photos detailing some of the differences between the two.
1882 on top, 1929 on bottom
showing the differences in the ejector rods, as you can see the 1882 has a extra aligning portion over the 1929
field stripping is the same between both
The 1882 has a hinge and captive screw to keep the side plate attached, the 1929 uses a pin and a standard screw. The 1882 screw head is also a bit larger and easier to get a screwdriver for.
1882s lockwork in the revolver
1929s lockwork in the revolver
1882 revolvers lockwork disassembled (note the numbering on the parts to tell you the order to disassemble)
1929s lockwork disassembled (note the lack of numbering)
Showing the difference in cuts in the revolver frames, 1882 on left, 1929 on right
showing the difference in front sights, on the 1929 it is a simple blade which is windage adjustable, well the 1882 has a ball which is non-adjustable (I prefer the 1882 sights)
Markings on the 1882, note the 'P36' stamp which signifies being sold out of service
Markings on the 1929, I suspect this example was never issued as there is no wear anywhere.
Nice swiss cross emblem on the 1929, the only real nicety added to the revolver system.
These revolvers are a bit underappreciated, which is understandable. Ammo is next to non-existent, and they aren't necessarily common firearms to begin with. Overall though they are neat, and quite fun guns to play with.
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06-18-2017 04:39 PM
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A very interesting side by side comparison. Thanks for taking the time and effort to share this with us.
The build quality of Swiss Service Firearms is superb isn't it. I have a couple of friends who shoot K31's and they are beautifully finished pieces of precision engineering and a pleasure to shoot.
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Legacy Member
The build quality is absolutely fantastic. The 1882 has likely the best trigger on a milsurp handgun I have ever handled (this particular example is from 1907), and everything is just smooth. The 1929 is still pretty good, just not as nice handling as the 1882 (due to simplifications).
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Legacy Member
Always wanted a Swiss Model 1878 revolver in 10.4mm (I do not have a 10.4mm in my collection either)
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