german .25 semi auto

Question
c.g. Haenel Suhl, Germany, Schmeisser's patent  one side,
numbers: 21399 on other...Just wondering what all you could tell me about this pistol.

Answer
Hello John. You have an interesting little handgun there. In 1921, Louis Schmeisser established himself as chief designer and engineer for the C.G. Haenel Company (well known for fine target and hunting firearms). He brought with him ideas and documents for a small vest pocket pistol destined to become the Model 1. This pistol, in the usual 6.35mm or .25 caliber, was of outstanding quality and had a number of remarkable features (most involving several safety features) that set it aside from the majority of small pocket pistols of the time. Starting with the unusual barrel attachment, safety functions included the prevention of  cocking the firing pin with the safety lever in safe position, while still allowing the slide to be pulled back to allow the ejection of a cartridge. The magazine could only be removed with the safety on and the safety lever could not be released until the magizine was replaced. It held 6 cartridges, had a barrel length of 54mm with a 4 groove right hand twist. Its empty weight was 380g with a total length of 115mm and height of 82mm. It was fairly slim with a width of only 24mm. Single action and hard rubber grips topped of this unique litte jewel. This small size 'pocket auto' was favored as a back-up gun by many high ranking military and police officials. Production started in 1921 and lasted until about 1930. Records are not available to indicate just how many of this pistol were manufactured.
I hope this has answered your question and thank you for asking for me.Charles Gage