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Quick Look
The Liberator pistol originated in 1942 as a single-shot firearm designed for easy mass production during World War II. Its design philosophy emphasized simplicity and low cost to supply resistance forces. Today, it remains a historical curiosity with niche appeal among collectors.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Extremely low-cost wartime design
- Simple single-shot operation
- Minimalist construction with stamped steel
- Easy to manufacture with basic tooling
- Valuable for historical collections
Key Variants
Liberator Pistol Final Flight
The last variant produced, representing the wartime prototype issued to resistance fighters.
Liberator Pistol Test Model
Early experimental version used to prove the stamped design concept.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | Liberator Pistol | Sten Gun | M3 Grease Gun |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | Issued free (WWII) | Low cost wartime | Low cost wartime |
| Capacity/Size | 1 shot, .45 ACP | 32 rounds, 9mm | 30 rounds, .45 ACP |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs | 7.7 lbs | 8.7 lbs |
| Optics-Ready | No | No | No |
| Trigger Type | Single-shot hammer | Simple blowback | Simple blowback |
| Notable Pro | Mass-producible resistance weapon | Widely used by British forces | Reliable close-quarter SMG |
| Notable Con | Single shot limits firepower | Crude construction quality | Heavy and bulky |
Best Use Cases
- Historical collection and display
- Wartime memorabilia enthusiasts
- Educational demonstrations
- Resistance weapon history study
FAQs
Can I load multiple rounds in the Liberator pistol?
No. The Liberator is a single-shot .45 ACP weapon designed for one round before reloading.
What is the effective range of the Liberator pistol?
Effective range is typically under 25 yards due to its simple design and single-shot nature.
How does the Liberator compare to modern pistols?
It lacks modern features like magazines and multiple shots, serving mostly historical interest today.







