Sustaining the MAB PA8 (8 round magazine), this semi -automatic single action was developed in the late 1960s with the aim of replacing the MAC model 1950 of the French army. Most of this market was won in the 1980s by the PAMAS G1.
Description
Operating according to an original rotating barrel mechanism, it is renowned for its great comfort, precision and reliability. The MAB Pa15 (for Manufacture d'armes de Bayonne Automatic 15-shot pistol) nevertheless suffers from a hard trigger, disappointing sights and a difficult-to-maneuver breech, which did not allow it to meet a real commercial success. A long-barreled version for competitive shooting was also produced. The latter was used by French military shooting teams under the designation of PAP Mle F1 (for Automatic Precision Pistol model F1). A double-action prototype was made in the 1980s. Although the Manufacture d'Armes de Bayonne no longer exists, the parts for this pistol are still manufactured by the MAM company in Bayonne.
Users
The PA15 model was worn personally by some officers. Some African countries bought some, as well as the SDECE.
MAB PA8 Data
Caliber :9 mm Parabellum
Length :20.3 cm
Barrel length :11.5 cm
Unloaded weight :1.09 kg
Loaded weight :1.365 kg
Capacity :8 cartridges
MAB PA15 Data
Caliber :9 mm Parabellum
Length :20.3 cm
Barrel length :11.5 cm
Unloaded weight :1.090 kg
Loaded weight :1.365 kg
Capacity :15 rounds
MAB P15 Competition Data
Caliber :9 mm Parabellum
Length :23.5 cm
Barrel length :15 cm
Weight not loaded :1.2 kg
Weightloaded :1.475 kg
Capacity :15 rounds