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Few movie guns are as iconic as Han Solo’s DL-44 blaster. This sci-fi weapon, built from a real Mauser C96 pistol, has fascinated fans and gun lovers for decades. Let’s break down its history, design, and record-breaking auction.
The DL-44: Han Solo’s Trusty Sidearm
Han’s blaster debuted in Star Wars: A New Hope (1977). Fans call it the “Hero prop” because it got the most screen time. Three were made for filming, each using a real Mauser C96 as the base.
Unlike the Empire’s sleek weapons, the DL-44 looked rough and practical. This fit Han’s smuggler persona perfectly.
The Real Gun: The Mauser C96
The DL-44 started as a Mauser C96, a German semi-auto pistol from 1896. Its unique grip earned it the nickname “Broomhandle.”
Key Features:
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Caliber: 7.63×25mm Mauser (later 9mm)
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No Pins: Only one screw holds it together
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Long-Range Sights: Some models had sights adjustable to 1,000 meters
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Carbine Option: Could attach a wooden stock
For Star Wars, crews shortened the barrel, added a Hensoldt 3x scope, and fitted an MG81 machine gun muzzle.
From Movie Set to Million-Dollar Sale
After filming, crews took the blasters apart (British law required it). For years, fans thought they were lost. Then, in 2010 and 2018, experts rediscovered one original C96, its scope, and mount.
The Big Auction
In 2022, Rock Island Auction Company sold this blaster for $1,057,500—more than double its estimate. This set a new Star Wars prop record.
Kevin Hogan of Rock Island said:
“Collectors love iconic pieces, whether they’re historic guns or movie props.”
Why Gun Lovers Like the DL-44
Beyond Star Wars, the Mauser C96 is a engineering marvel. Its clever design and wartime use make it a favorite among collectors.
Changes in the Films:
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A New Hope: Hensoldt scope, MG81 muzzle
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Empire Strikes Back: Different scope, possibly a fire extinguisher nozzle
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Return of the Jedi: More cosmetic tweaks
Want Your Own Piece of History?
The original DL-44 now sits in a private collection. But you can still own classic firearms like the Mauser.
Looking for a gun of your own? Check out Keystone Shooting Center. They offer handguns, rifles, and historical models. Their experts can help you find the right fit.
Han Solo’s blaster isn’t just a prop—it’s a bridge between real gun history and sci-fi legend. From Earth’s battlefields to galactic adventures, the DL-44 remains one of the coolest guns ever made.
