Erma ESP 85A

The ESP 85A is a target pistol produced by the German firearms company Erma.

Mainly used as a sporting arm, it is also found in service with security companies. It is available in two calibers, .22 LR (the preferred sporting or target model) and .32 S&W Long (7.65x23mm).

There is a difference between models marked ESP85 and ESP85A. Both versions could have been had with either the 100 mm (4-inch) or 153 mm (6-inch) barrel. There is even a shorter version, where the barrel flushes with the forward front of the slide. Some models, probably the ESP85, have a longer trigger bar than the ESP85A, and also with a different placed disconnector-notch in the slide. These part do not interchange.

The ESP85 also has a simpler, all-steel trigger, whereas the ESP85A has a forward-rearward adjustable plastic-steel trigger.

The feeding ramp between the ESP85 and ESP85A is also a bit different. While one may attach the barrel to the frame, the trigger will not work, because rearward movement will stop against the feeding-ramp. But a usable conversion can be made with the help of a gunsmith.

Although the precision is on par with any top-notch target pistols, the high bore axis will increase felt recoil, and doesn't lend itself to ISSF rapid-fire matches. Reliability-problems are usually not an issue with these guns.

Other drawbacks are the simple trigger mechanism. It has a similar design to the other pocket-sized pistols of Erma. The Erma needs frequently cleaning in the trigger area, especially with the .22 version, since primer/gunpowder residue and bullet wax will make the trigger somewhat gritty and uneven.

Since the Erma has a magazine-grip, it has its limitations when it comes to grip-modifications. Shooters with stubby fingers will have problems reaching the trigger with the appropriate 90-degree angle. The grip-angle is somewhat shallow and outdated compared to new high-class pistols, meaning that the shooter must use more muscles to get a good shot.

Its strength lies in the somewhat sloppy fitting between slide and frame, securing reliability even after 2000 rounds without cleaning.

The ESP 85 is 255 mm long with a 153 mm barrel, and features single-action operation. It weighs 1140 g empty, and the magazine capacity is eight rounds.