FIREARMS Handguns –

First Edition. pp. 768 illusts #210825

“Following the style of “Smith & Smith – Small arms of the World” Ezell’s classic reference work covers the design of handguns from basic beginnings to the 1960s. The main focus of the book is the development of the semi automatic pistol from the 1880s up to the 1930, and covers the majority of the operating principles used in modern firearms.

The book is full of clear diagrams and illustrations supported by informative text. The subject is presented in a logical and easy to follow yet comprehensive manner. The book is definately a cut above the many “Coffee Table” gun books produced in the period (1960/70) and is of use to serious researchers and designers.

This text has a place not only on the bookshelf of the firearms enthusiast but also the design engineer, as much of the early work on mass production was carried out on small arms, and handguns in particular.”