KWC M712 "Broom Handle" (Mauser Model 712) CO2 4.5mm BB Blowback Air Pistol

The Broom Handle is back, and frankly, it was never going to stay away forever.
 
The KWC M712 is one of those replica pistols that is almost impossible to mistake for anything else. Based on the infamous Mauser Model 712, itself an upgraded version of the earlier C96, this is about as distinctive as replica pistols get.
 
It is also an absolute lump.
 
At approximately 1.45 kg, the KWC M712 is almost entirely metal and has the sort of weight that makes most modern polymer pistols feel like toys. Add the long barrel, unusual grip and distinctive silhouette and you've got a pistol that looks like it has arrived directly from another century.
 
It is also a lot of fun.
 
The M712 Broom Handle
The real Mauser C96 was already an unusual pistol, but the Model 712 took things a step further. Outside the UK, the original M712 was capable of automatic fire, with a selector allowing the shooter to switch between semi-automatic and automatic operation.
 
KWC has replicated that selector on this air pistol, but this UK model is semi-automatic only.
Yes, even if the box or manual suggests otherwise, it does not fire fully automatically.
 
The selector is there because it is part of the M712's appearance and controls, but don't expect to hold the trigger down and recreate a scene from an old war film.
 
More Airsoft Than Traditional BB Pistol
One of the interesting things about the KWC M712 is that it sits somewhere between a conventional CO2 BB pistol and an airsoft-style replica.
 
It uses a smoothbore barrel with a fixed hop-up, giving the BB some useful range rather than simply lobbing it towards the target and hoping for the best.
 
The hop-up is designed around both steel and plastic 4.5 mm BBs, although the two will behave differently. Different BB weights and materials will produce different velocities, trajectories and effective ranges, so don't expect every ammunition type to perform identically.
 
The magazine is a substantial 19-round metal drop-out magazine, and the blowback action gives the M712 the sort of mechanical movement that makes it considerably more entertaining to shoot than a basic non-blowback plinker.
 
Do not use copper BBs.
 
All Metal, All Character
This is where the M712 really earns its place.
 
The construction is predominantly metal, with only the necessary internals and grips being made from other materials. That contributes heavily to the weight, but it also gives the pistol a properly substantial feel.
 
At around 1.45 kg, however, this isn't necessarily the pistol for somebody with limited grip strength. It is heavy, long and slightly awkward by modern pistol standards.
 
Which is, of course, part of the appeal.
 
Because the gun is metal and requires basic factory testing before being shipped, it is quite possible for your brand-new M712 to arrive with some marks on the magazine or slide.
 
Don't panic.
 
A few handling marks are not necessarily a sign that you've received a used pistol. These are the sorts of things that can occur during testing and handling, particularly on a large metal replica with a painted finish.
 
And honestly, it suits the gun.
 
If KWC released a factory-worn version, we'd probably expect people to buy it specifically because it looks like it has already spent 80 years having adventures.
 
The Famous Stock Connection
The M712 has another feature that makes it instantly recognisable to anyone familiar with the original.
 
The rear of the grip incorporates the stock mounting slot, allowing the pistol to accept the distinctive combination stock and holster associated with the Broom Handle.
 
Unfortunately, there is a fairly significant catch. KWC does not produce the stock.
 
So while the mounting provision is present on the replica, finding a compatible stock is very much a case of tracking one down yourself.
 
If you do manage to find one, the result is one of the most recognisable historical firearm configurations ever produced.
 
What This Gun Is Actually For
This is not a precision target pistol.
 
It isn't a modern competition handgun.
 
It isn't particularly lightweight, ergonomic or practical by modern standards.
 
And it certainly isn't going to follow you into battle after you've been shot down by the RAF.
 
It's a fun gun.
 
That's the reason to buy one.
 
The M712 is one of those replicas where the unusual design is the entire point. The blowback action, fixed hop-up, enormous metal construction and bizarre Broom Handle profile make it something you'll pick up because it's interesting rather than because it is the most efficient way of putting BBs downrange.
 
And sometimes that's exactly what you want from an air pistol.
 
Specifications
Model: KWC M712 Broom Handle
Based On: Mauser Model 712
Calibre: 4.5 mm BB
Ammunition: Steel or plastic BBs
Do Not Use: Copper BBs
Power Source: 1 x 12 g CO2 Capsule
Action: Single Action Repeater with Blowback
Magazine: Metal Drop-Out Magazine
Magazine Capacity: 19 Rounds
Estimated Shots Per Capsule: Approximately 30, depending on firing rate
Safety: Rear Sear Safety
Sights: Adjustable Height Rear Sight
Rails: None
Construction: Metal Powder Coated
Barrel Length: 130 mm
Barrel: Smooth Bore with Fixed Hop-Up
Overall Length: 300 mm
Weight: Approximately 1.45 kg
 
Important Information
The KWC M712 is supplied in international packaging, meaning the box and manual may contain information relating to versions sold in other countries.
 
Do not assume that every specification, mode of operation or performance figure printed on the packaging or in the manual applies to the UK version.
 
In particular, this pistol is semi-automatic only, despite the real M712's automatic capability and the presence of a corresponding selector on the replica.
 
The fixed hop-up also means ammunition choice can have a noticeable effect on how the pistol shoots. Steel and plastic BBs have different characteristics, so range and trajectory will vary between ammunition types.
 
In The Box
KWC M712 Broom Handle CO2 Air Pistol
19-Round Metal Magazine
International Manual