Star Model DKL
The D series pistols are smaller .380 ACP (9 mm Browning Short) and .32 (7.65 mm) caliber variants of the model B. The DKL is a shortened version with a lightweight aluminum alloy frame. It is designed for use by security and undercover forces. In keeping with the concealable nature of its users, the sights and controls are mostly small and rounded, but a sharp, full-sized hammer is fitted and the grip is comfortably large. In the middle 1970s, Colt decided to offer a .380 auto. The gun (called the Pony) was a conglomeration of a Star DK slide & associated internals, and a U.S. made steel frame, as the small size precluded its importation under GCA '68. For some reason, after product announcement, the Colt / Star coalition was cancelled. At this time Iver Johnson bought the U.S. manufacturing rights to the gun. Apparently quite a few frames were made in anticipation of the Colt deal, as all the early Johnson serial numbers start with "CPA" (Colt Pony Automatic). It is also possible that some slides were made in the U.S. by Iver Johnson, but all the small parts were Spanish imports by Star.
Picture and information courtesy of: Steven Hoober
