Selected Handgun Detail

Manufacturer
	Steyr Mannlicher GmbH & Co. KG More Info

About the Gun

Large-frame double-stack semi-automatic. Gas-delayed blowback operation. Hard chrome barrel with polygonal rifling. GB abbreviation stands for Gasbremse (gas brake). The steel frame has textured, non-slip surfaces and the squared trigger guard is made of hard plastic.

Production

Production of this firearm began in 1982 and continued through 1988.

Market value

The last MSRP for this gun is around $600. The current used market value in 95% condition is around $1,000–$1,100.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	9 mm Luger
Alias:	9 mm Parabellum
More Info

Analysis

The Steyr GB arrived in the handgun market amid the "wondernine" surge of high-capacity 9mm pistols but faced stiff competition from established designs like the CZ 75, Beretta 92, and S&W 59-series, plus the emerging Glock. Its gas-delayed blowback system delivered notably soft recoil and consistent accuracy from the fixed barrel and polygonal rifling, with owners reporting reliable function and sub-2-inch groups at 25 yards possible under good conditions. However, the heavy steel frame (around 30–34 oz unloaded), gritty double-action trigger, and limited aftermarket support restricted broader adoption—no major law enforcement contracts materialized, and civilian sales remained modest. In collector terms, the GB stands as an innovative but commercially unsuccessful entry in the transition from traditional steel DA/SA pistols to lighter polymer platforms, valued more for its engineering (gas brake delaying slide unlock) and historical footnote status than everyday utility. Current market position reflects its short run and scarcity.