The Mauser Mod. HSc, a 7.65mm pistol, emerged in Nazi Germany during World War II and remained in production until 1977. Its name, HSc, denoted "Hahn Selbstspanner" or "self-cocking hammer" Pistole, representing its third and final design iteration "C". This firearm was initially conceived for commercial use, entering competition with contemporaries like the Walther PPK, PP, and Sauer 38H for military and police contracts.

Production began in late 1940 at serial number 700,000, extending the Mauser Model 1934's serial range. The early models featured meticulous craftsmanship, polished finishes, and rich bluing, with finely crafted wooden grips. The first batch of pistols, around 1,350, distinguished by their "Low Grip Screw" positioning, were primarily procured by the Kriegsmarine.

German Army procurement commenced in early 1941, starting at serial number 701,345. These pistols bore distinct inspection stamps and factory proofs. The subsequent variations in procurement marked progress in production techniques and finishing quality. The final variation, with a phosphate finish akin to the U.S. parkerizing finish, is especially rare today and highly sought after by collectors.

World War II production concluded with the fall of Nazi Germany, after which French production took place from 1945 to 1946, distinguished by the RW proof marking. These pistols were primarily destined for French forces in the First Indochina War. Post-war, production resumed in Oberndorf from 1968 to 1977, focusing on high-quality commercial pistols. These found their way to German police units and were also exported, predominantly to the North American market.

Originally chambered for 7.65×17mmSR Browning (.32 ACP), later models in the 1970s transitioned to the 9x17mm (.380 ACP) caliber. Additionally, a variant known as the "HSc Super" or "SAB-2001 Super," produced under license by Renato Gamba in Italy, expanded chambering options to include .380 ACP and 9×18mm Ultra. This variant featured a double-column magazine and introduced design elements influenced by American preferences.

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