This book provides a convenient reference to the history and characteristics of the self-loading pistols that were adopted by the military forces of the nations involved in the two World Wars. It presents a selection of nineteen self-loading pistols - and the firms engaged in their manufacture - during this period, together with a technical appraisal of each weapon. For each pistol a history of both manufacturer and pistol is provided, along with a colour photograph and cutaway views of both the pistol and its breech operation. Details and cutaway views are also provided for the cartridges used by these pistols. All of the weapons illustrated are representative of the pattern issued to the military, and in many cases they continued to be produced for the commercial market. With a wealth of technical information and high-quality illustrations prepared specially for this book, Military Pistols - Handguns of the Two World Wars will be an invaluable addition to the library of anyone with an interest in the weaponry of the mid-twentieth century. AUTHOR: Gordon Bruce has written many articles on the subject of handguns already published in firearms magazines throughout Europe, Australia and the United States of America. SELLING POINTS: . A comprehensive reference to the history and characteristics of the self-loading pistols involved in the two World Wars. . Gives an appraisal of nineteen self-loading pistols of the period. . An invaluable addition to the library of anyone with an interest in the weaponry of the mid-twentieth century. . Includes a wealth of technical information and numerous high-quality illustrations prepared specially for the book. . The latest title in the highly collectable Europa Militaria series. . Gordon Bruce has had many articles on handguns published in firearms magazines worldwide. 437 colour photos