[marktwain]

The Spanish Astra 400 was commonly chambered for the 9x23 cartridge. Some models were stamped 9mm/.38, and would reliably fire .38 auto cartridges as well. It should fire and cycle the various 9x21 cartridges. A friend said his would reliably feed and fire 9x19, and while .380 auto (9x17) would not cycle the action, they would reliable feed from the magazine and fire, if hand cycled.

I like the pistol. They are fairly accurate. But, by today's standards, they are heavy, complex, and only hold 8-9 rounds.

[schurmann]

“The Spanish Astra 400 was commonly chambered for the 9x23 cartridge. Some models were stamped 9mm/.38, and would reliably fire .38 auto cartridges as well...” [marktwain, post 39]

Astra’s 400 was chambered for 9mm Largo (aka 9mm Bergmann-Bayard), which is not the same as today’s 9x23mm (introduced 1996).

38 ACP is semi-rimmed but has been known to feed and cycle the 400. 38 ACP pistols (M1900, M1902, M1903 Pocket Hammer) went out of production at Colt’s in 1929, when the 38 Super Auto was introduced. 38 Super develops higher pressure than 38 ACP and should never be fired in the earlier guns.

38 ACP is tough to come by these days; it has the same external dimensions and bullet as 38 Super, and ammunition can be handloaded to the lower pressures/velocities safe in 38 ACP pistols.

Users are advised to exercise extreme caution. Avoid firing 38 Super in the 400.