MBAssociates Mark I Model B Gyrojet Pistol with Case

Manufactured c. 1965-1966, this MBAssociates Mark I Model B Gyrojet Pistol is one of the first 1,000 produced, as authenticated by the included matching numbered MBAssociates certificate, signed by company president Robert Mainhardt and dated January 6, 1966. Instead of conventional cased ammunition, the Mark I Gyrojet uses 13 mm solid fuel rocket projectiles. Since these rocket projectiles do not require a solid chamber to contain ignition nor extractor equipment to eject a casing, the entire pistol is greatly simplified over conventional handguns and constructed from mostly lightweight materials. Features adjustable blade front and fixed notch rear sights, front-mounted hammer, internal single-stack box magazine with viewing slit in the left side of the grip, "PATENT PENDING" marked on the right and the two-line MBAssociates address on the left of the barrel 'rib', three-line model, and caliber markings above the serial number on the left of the frame, and a safety lever on the left rear portion of the frame. Fitted with a pair of smooth walnut grips. Also included with the pistol are a walnut MBAssociates display case fitted to the pistol with red felt interior, a commemorative coin themed for Robert Goddard (credited as the inventor of the first liquid fueled rocket), and 10 unfired Gyrojet 13 mm rocket projectiles (five 'spitzer' type, five 'wad cutter' type).

Condition

Excellent, retaining 95% plus original black finish with some minor thinning and rub wear around the base of the grip frame and on the bottom of the backstrap, otherwise limited handling evidence. The grips are also excellent with a very small chip missing from the bottom rear of the right panel. The hammer does not stay cocked, mechanically needs adjustment. The case is very fine.