8mm BERGMAN-SIMPLEX

Research notes

After his experimental Bergmann-Schmeisser Model 1892 design, the first military development design since then by Theodor Bermann (1850-1931) was the Model 1897, but again it failed to win any military contracts. At that stage, he realised that there would be a difference in the designs presented to the military and those on offer commercially as smaller concealed carry guns. The Bergmann No.6 Model of 1897 was redesigned as a smaller type handgun, called the Simplex, and further separate designs continuing with the Bermann-Mars for the military. The Simplex was made in a shortened 8mm design with 18mm case, as opposed to the No. 4 with 22mm case length. Early production of the Simplex was by the Valentin Christoph Schilling Company of Suhl and not by Bermann himself, who at that stage utilised the factory for automobile manufacturing and did not have sufficient space for guns. Later manufacturing was also done in Belgium, but according to reports the quality of the Simplex was sub-standard and of inferior quality. The introduction of the M1899 FN Browning pocket pistols of much better quality, accuracy and reliability led to the demise of the Simplex pistol. (Erlmeier, Brandt Ref. 85).