Star pistols – most notably the Model B, Super B, and Model BM – served as standard sidearms for the South African military and police for decades. Manufactured by the now-defunct Spanish company Star Bonifacio Echeverria, these 1911-style, all-steel firearms are highly regarded in South Africa for their durability and affordability. The Star Model B / BS / Super B: Adopted heavily starting around 1967 through the late 1980s. These full-sized, single-stack 9mm Parabellum pistols resemble the classic American Colt M1911 but lack a grip safety. Many military-surplus models still circulating in SA carry distinct South African government proof stamps.
While the Browning Hi-Power was the “official” standard service pistol of the Rhodesian Army, the Star Model BM was heavily procured and used by frontline combat units like the elite Rhodesian Light Infantry (RLI).