FN Model 1903
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The FN Model 1903, or Browning No.2 was a self-loading semi-automatic pistol engineered by John Browning and made by Fabrique Nationale. It was introduced in 1903 and fired the 9 x 20mm SR Browning Long cartridge.
It should not be confused with the Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless (in .32 ACP), nor the Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammer (in .38 ACP), although they are also designs of John Browning. John Browning sold his designs to both companies (and others as well).
Due to its reliability, accuracy, light weight, and quick reloading, the M1903 was an issued sidearm for many police forces and militaries, including those of Belgium, the Netherlands, Turkey, and Sweden (manufactured under license as the Husqvarna m/1907).
[edit] In popular culture
The FN1903 was, for a time, used by fictional superspy James Bond in Ian Fleming's series of Bond novels. It replaced the secret agent's venerable Walther PPK after a real life incident in which a Walther used by a British police officer jammed while attempting to protect Princess Anne from kidnappers.
