Stosel pocket pistol

[Strayhorn]

My local shop has a small pocket pistol for sale which we have tentatively identified as a Stosel model 1915.

Thre is very little info available - I've looked through all my reference works and done some web searching - all I've turned up is a few places selling mags and grips for this pistol.

The Blue Book doesn't even have a listing for them, much less a price.

Anyone have any ideas about this item? Would it be a nice addition to my collection of pocket pistols or should we use it as a boat anchor? It was brought back from Germany by a veteran, and we have no further info (it was part of an estate).

Ken Strayhorn
Hillsborough NC

 

[Steven Mace]

Strayhorn, Stosel was one of many trade names used by Retolaza Hermanos located in Eibar, Spain from the 1890's until the 1920's. The Stosel was chambered in .25 ACP and was a cheap imitation of the Browning 1906. Today a Stosel in excellent condition might be worth about $125-$175. Hope this helps!

Steve Mace

 

[Strayhorn]

Thanks, Steve

That's a worthwhile clue and I can trace it back from there. I suppose this is like the MAP plant, turing out those Browning copies like so many hot bisquits.

Recently purchased a Mars .25, another 1906 copy made by MAP. I was frankly surprised at the fit and finish, plus the accuracy.

Ken Strayhorn
Hillsborough NC