I Have This Old Gun: Sauer 38H

Published on April 8, 2026
Duration: 4:24

The Sauer 38H, introduced in 1938, was an innovative German double-action pistol produced by Sauer and Son. It featured an automatic cocking lever and was primarily chambered in .32 ACP, a John Browning-designed cartridge. A notable feature was its frame-mounted decocking lever, a system later adopted by other German firearms. The pistol was favored by Nazi Party officials and had a unique variant for snipers.

Quick Summary

The Sauer 38H, introduced in 1938, was a highly innovative German double-action pistol featuring an automatic cocking lever and the first frame-mounted decocking device. Primarily chambered in .32 ACP, it was favored by Nazi Party officials and influenced later firearm designs.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Interwar German Firearms Innovation
  2. 00:15Introducing the Sauer Model 38H
  3. 00:36Sauer and Son Production
  4. 00:42Meaning of '38H'
  5. 00:51Caliber: .32 ACP
  6. 01:01Concealed Carry Potential
  7. 01:15WWII Practicality
  8. 01:44Post-WWII Importation
  9. 01:59Noteworthy Features
  10. 02:04First Frame Decocking Device
  11. 02:14Decocking System Details
  12. 02:30Safety Lever
  13. 02:36Association with Nazi Party Officials
  14. 02:52Unique Sniper Variant
  15. 03:09Sniper Variant Markings
  16. 03:24Production Numbers
  17. 03:35End of Production
  18. 03:45Legacy and Modern Influence
  19. 03:57Influence on SIG Sauer
  20. 04:08Innovative Design Recognition

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Sauer 38H and when was it introduced?

The Sauer 38H was an innovative German double-action pistol produced by Sauer and Son, introduced in 1938. It was considered a high-quality firearm during the interwar period and World War II.

What were the key features of the Sauer 38H pistol?

The Sauer 38H is notable for its automatic cocking lever and its pioneering frame-mounted decocking device. It also features an internal hammer and a safety lever on the slide.

What caliber was the Sauer 38H typically chambered in?

The bulk of Sauer 38H production was in .32 ACP, a cartridge designed by John Browning. This made it a relatively compact and manageable pistol.

Did the Sauer 38H have any special variants?

Yes, a unique variant of the Sauer 38H was produced for German snipers who achieved at least 100 kills. These were marked 'Dem Scharfschützen' and bore Heinrich Himmler's signature.

What is the legacy of the Sauer 38H in firearm design?

The Sauer 38H's innovative features, particularly its decocking system, influenced later firearm designs. Principles from the 38H can be seen in modern pistols, including those made by SIG Sauer.

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