The evolution of early 20th-century semi-automatic handguns matters to modern defensive-minded shooters because lessons in ergonomics, safety, and reliability still apply today. Studying historically significant pistols gives practical insight into design decisions that shaped contemporary carry and service pistols.

SAVAGE ARMS 1905 is an example of that lineage: the design traces to a Nov. 21, 1905 patent by Elbert Searle (the patent date is actually stamped on its slide), and production ran from 1907 to 1920. The pistol was offered in .32 ACP and, beginning in 1913, .380 ACP — two calibers that influenced early pocket- and officer-style carry pistols. Shop this product

Design heritage and operation

The SAVAGE ARMS 1905 reflects designer-driven innovation. The patent by Elbert Searle underpins its locked-slide and sear concepts that were novel for the era. Production between 1907 and 1920 established a small but influential run that informed later semi-auto ergonomics and magazine feeds. For collectors and students of defensive firearms design, the stamped 1905 patent date is an important identifying mark.

Calibers, handling, and defensive considerations

The pistol’s original chamberings — .32 ACP and later .380 ACP beginning in 1913 — made it practical for concealed carry and close-quarters defense in the early 1900s. .32 ACP offers low recoil and controllability for shooters learning fundamentals, while .380 ACP provides a balance of compact size and increased terminal performance. Training with either cartridge teaches trigger discipline, sight alignment, and reload mechanics that transfer to modern defensive platforms.

Practical preservation and value

As an early Savage Arms product, this pistol is notable for both historical context and mechanical lessons. The listed price of $1,399.99 reflects collectible condition expectations and the limited availability of original examples. View product details and pricing before purchase to confirm condition and provenance. View product details

Buying tips for collectors and practitioners

When evaluating a SAVAGE ARMS 1905, verify the stamped patent date, overall mechanical function, and any restoration work. For those seeking a functional historical piece versus a display example, confirm whether the bore, extractor, and magazine feed reliably and whether original parts remain. Check current availability on the shop page before planning a purchase. Check availability

People Also Ask