This Bauer .25 Automatic is a compact stainless steel pocket pistol manufactured by Bauer Firearms Corp. in Fraser, Michigan, U.S.A. Serial number 077537. Chambered in .25 ACP (6.35mm), it is an American-made clone of the legendary FN Baby Browning, featuring elegant mother-of-pearl grip panels that elevate this piece from a practical pocket pistol to a refined collector's item.
This pistol is a distinguished part of the private collection of HRH Victor Emmanuel of Savoy, son of the last King of Italy, Umberto II. An authentic Certificate of Ownership accompanies this piece.
Historical Background
The Bauer Automatic was manufactured between 1972 and 1984 in Fraser, Michigan. It was the first American-made copy of the iconic FN/Browning Baby Browning pocket pistol, originally designed by Dieudonné Saive at Fabrique Nationale in Belgium and produced from 1931 to 1979.
Unlike the original Baby Browning, which was made from blued carbon steel, the Bauer was constructed entirely from investment-cast stainless steel, making it significantly more resistant to corrosion and wear. This stainless construction, combined with its ultra-compact dimensions, made it a popular choice as a discreet personal defense pistol during the 1970s and 1980s.
The mother-of-pearl grips on this example are a premium option, adding a distinctive aesthetic touch that makes this pistol particularly suited to a gentleman's collection.
Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: Bauer Firearms Corp., Fraser, Michigan, U.S.A.
- Model: Bauer .25 Automatic
- Serial Number: 077537
- Caliber: .25 ACP (6.35mm)
- Action: Semi-automatic, striker-fired, blowback operated
- Magazine Capacity: 6 rounds
- Barrel Length: 53 mm (2.1")
- Overall Length: 102 mm (4")
- Height: 70 mm (2.75")
- Weight: 0.28 kg (10 oz)
- Finish: Brushed stainless steel
- Grips: Mother-of-pearl
Markings
- Left side of frame: "Bauer Firearms Corp. / FRASER, MICHIGAN U.S.A." + serial number 077537 + "S"
- Right side of slide: "Bauer Automatic / .25 CALIBER AUTOMATIC"
Condition
Excellent condition. Stainless steel finish shows minimal wear with light handling marks. Mother-of-pearl grips are intact and lustrous with no cracks or chips. All controls functional. A beautifully preserved example.
What's Included
- 1x Bauer .25 Automatic pistol (S/N 077537)
- Certificate of Ownership — V.E. de Savoie Collection
