A legendary piece of cinematic history is set to ignite the passions of collectors and Star Wars aficionados alike. The only surviving original Han Solo DL-44 blaster from Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope is poised to go under the hammer at Rock Island Auction Company, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a tangible artifact from the galaxy far, far away. This isn’t just a movie prop; it’s a cultural icon, a symbol of rebellion, and a testament to the ingenuity behind the creation of the Star Wars universe.
The Genesis of a Sci-Fi Icon: From “Used Future” to “Greebles”
The magic of Star Wars wasn’t solely in its epic space battles or mythical storytelling, but also in its grounded, believable aesthetic. George Lucas, the visionary behind the saga, championed the concept of a “used future.” This meant spaceships weren’t pristine, weapons showed wear, and the entire universe felt lived-in. This revolutionary idea stood in stark contrast to the often sterile and polished science fiction of the time.
Close-up view of the Mauser C96 pistol, the original firearm that served as the base for Han Solo’s iconic DL-44 blaster prop in Star Wars: A New Hope.
This “used future” vision, coupled with a famously tight budget for the first film, led to resourceful solutions in the prop department. The creation of iconic weapons like Han Solo’s blaster relied heavily on repurposing and modifying readily available items, particularly surplus firearms. This pistol is a stunning example of that ingenuity, born from a blend of existing gun parts and creative embellishments.
A key element in achieving the Star Wars look was the concept of “greebles.” Developed by Lucas, set decorator Roger Christian, and production designer John Barry, “greebles” referred to the small, intricate, mechanical-looking details added to sets, models, costumes, and props. These details, often sourced from scrap aircraft parts or model kits, gave the Star Wars universe a unique sense of depth and realism. This approach extended to the personal weapons of the film’s heroes, transforming ordinary objects into futuristic tools of adventure.
From Mauser C96 to DL-44: The Transformation at Bapty & Co.
To equip the characters of Star Wars, the production partnered with Bapty & Co., a London-based prop house renowned for its expertise in providing firearms for film. Time and budget constraints dictated a pragmatic approach: utilize existing items wherever possible. Surplus firearms, easily modified with accessories and “greebles,” became the foundation for many of the blasters seen on screen.
A detailed side view of the Han Solo blaster prop, showcasing the modifications made to the Mauser C96, including the scope, flash hider, and barrel alterations, highlighting its transformation into the iconic DL-44.
Examples abound throughout the film. Stormtroopers wielded BlasTech E-11 blasters, cleverly disguised Sterling L2A3 submachine guns. The imposing BlasTech DLT-19 Heavy Blaster Rifle, favored by Imperial troops, was built upon the framework of an MG34 machine gun. Even the rapid-fire BlasTech T-21, a weapon of choice for eliminating Rebel scum, originated as a modified Lewis gun.
But perhaps the most iconic of these repurposed firearms was the Mauser C96 pistol, affectionately nicknamed the “Broomhandle” Mauser. This distinctive weapon became both the Merr-Sonn Munitions, Inc. Model 44 blaster, carried by Imperial officers, and, most famously, the BlasTech DL-44 heavy blaster pistol wielded by the legendary Han Solo.
Three Mauser C96 pistols were originally transformed into DL-44 blasters for A New Hope. Interestingly, only one functional scope existed, shared between the three pistols depending on the shot’s requirements. This specific pistol, now heading to Rock Island Auction Company, is documented by Tony Watts, who acquired Bapty & Co. in 2000, and Carl Schmidt, the film’s lead armorer, as the sole surviving original DL-44 heavy blaster from the first Star Wars film.
The Cantina and Beyond: An Icon Forged in Action
One of the first unforgettable glimpses of the DL-44 blaster occurs during the tense standoff in the Mos Eisley Cantina between Han Solo and the bounty hunter Greedo. The blaster reappears in the ensuing chaos of the Mos Eisley escape, solidifying its place in cinematic history.
Profile view of the DL-44 blaster prop, emphasizing the scope and overall silhouette that became instantly recognizable as Han Solo’s signature weapon in the Star Wars saga.
After filming A New Hope, the three DL-44 blasters were returned to a more recognizable “Broomhandle” configuration for use in other productions. Little did anyone know the immense cultural significance these props would eventually hold for the burgeoning Star Wars phenomenon.
Rediscovering a Legend: A Prop’s Journey Through Time
The journey of this particular DL-44 blaster, like many legendary movie props, is filled with twists and turns. Tony Watts, in a letter included with the auction lot at Rock Island Auction Company, recounts the fascinating rediscovery of this cinematic treasure.
Upon acquiring Bapty & Co.’s stock in 2000, Watts’ initial focus wasn’t on Star Wars memorabilia. It was only after selling other Star Wars props that the question of Han Solo’s blaster arose. He consulted Carl Schmidt, the original lead armorer, to unravel the blaster’s true history.
Schmidt explained that for A New Hope, the production opted for Mauser C96 pistols, fitted with vintage German Hensoldt scopes (previously used in a Frank Sinatra film) and MG81 flash hiders. Real blank-firing guns were crucial for action scenes, aiding special effects synchronization and actor reactions. As was standard practice, multiple pistols were prepared – initially two, then a third as production needs grew. Only one genuine scope existed, moved between pistols for close-ups, with dummy scopes used otherwise.
After filming, due to UK firearm regulations and a lack of foresight regarding Star Wars’ future impact, the blasters were reconfigured for general prop use. The significance of these items was simply not recognized at the time.
Decades later, in 2010, after persistent inquiries from Watts, Carl Schmidt unearthed the original Hensoldt-Wetzlar scope. Then, in 2018, he discovered remnants of the original scope mount. Watts then turned his attention to Bapty & Co.’s remaining stock of C96 pistols. Among them, one stood out – serial number 299415, with a re-lengthened barrel and faint witness marks. This, undeniably, was one of the original three blasters, and remarkably, the only survivor.
For his own satisfaction, Watts persuaded a retired Carl Schmidt to reconstruct the blaster, using original parts and techniques. A flash hider from an MG81 spares box was used, possibly even the original. While not in its exact on-screen configuration (lacking the smaller “greebles”), this reconstructed blaster retains approximately 80% of its original iconic components.
Details of the Surviving Blaster: A Close Examination
The pistol itself bears the markings of its Mauser C96 origins, including Waffenfabrik Mauser address fragments, proof marks, and partial serial numbers. The full serial number, “299415,” is present, along with other subtle markings connecting it to its history.
Three-quarter view of the Han Solo DL-44 blaster prop, highlighting the scope, barrel modifications, and grip, providing a comprehensive look at this iconic piece of film history.
It features a sleeved barrel for a more substantial profile and is configured to fire 9mm blanks. The threaded lug, numbered “415,” accommodates the MG81 flash hider. The scope and mount bear their own unique markings, further authenticating their history. Internally, the grips are stamped “280.”
Crucially, the blaster comes with a BATFE letter confirming its status as a movie prop from Star Wars and acknowledging its significant monetary value due to its connection to the film. It also includes a photograph of Han Solo signed by Harrison Ford, adding further provenance and appeal.
A Piece of Movie History: Don’t Miss This Auction at Rock Island Auction Company
The mystique surrounding the original DL-44 blasters has fueled endless speculation among Star Wars fans for decades. Questions about their configuration, whereabouts, and condition have become as debated as the infamous “Han shot first” controversy (for the record, he did!). This offering at Rock Island Auction Company represents an unparalleled opportunity to own not just a movie prop, but a genuine artifact from a cultural phenomenon.
This is the only surviving original Han Solo DL-44 heavy blaster from Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. It is more than just a firearm; it’s a symbol of a galaxy far, far away, a piece of movie magic, and a tangible link to the adventures of Han Solo. Don’t miss your chance to bid on this extraordinary piece of cinematic history when it goes to auction at Rock Island Auction Company. After all, as Han himself famously said, “Hokey religions and ancient weapons are no match for a good blaster at your side, kid.” And owning this blaster? That’s as good as it gets.
