FN Barracuda
Overview
FN Barracuda
Left side view of a FN Barracuda revolver imported into the United States.
Source: Unknown author -
© Copyright lies with original owner
Spain - Astra Unceta
France - MAB (assembly)
United States - Law enforcement
Belgium - Local police forces
Description
Introduction
The FN Barracuda is a late Cold War era revolver of Belgian origin. It was marketed by Belgian arms manufacturer Fabrique Nationale specifically for law enforcement use. The actual design and parts production stems from Spanish arms manufacture Astra Unceta y Cia. Final assembly was done by French arsenal MAB for at least a part of its production run, and possibly for the entire production run.
Design
The Barracuda is unique in its ability to swap calibers using two distinct cylinders. One allows for .38 Special and .357 Magnum. For this reason the Barracuda is a heavy and sturdy design. The other cylinder allows for 9x19mm Parabellum, for which special 6 round star-shaped clips can be used. The design of the revolver itself stems from the Astra 357 design. It is a double action - single action revolver with swing out cylinder. The Barracuda was built in only one variant with three inch barrel and fixed sights.
Firepower
The Barracuda is chambered for either 9x19mm Parabellum, .38 Special or .357 Magnum. Both cylinder options have a six round capacity. The cylinder for 9x19mm is shaped to accept star-shaped clips with a six round capacity to increase reload speed. Rate of fire is semi-automatic with a DA/SA trigger.
Users
For European sales chambered in 9x19mm the Barracuda proved too heavy compared to pistols and had a severe disadvantage in magazine capacity. In the American market it was predominantly sold with the .38 / .357 cylinder only. With the 9mm cylinder marketed as a more cost-effective training option. In Spain the Barracuda was used in .38 Special, including as standard issue for the Madrid police. Most of the limited sales of the Barracuda were in the late 1970's.
Details
Related articles
Manurhin MR-73
A competing European revolver design is the MR-73, which was also more expensive. A drawback of the Barracuda was its weight. It was heavier than the 3-inch model of the MR-73, which already has a connotation for being a rugged and reliable design.