I Have This Old Gun: The Ortgies Pistol

Published on October 29, 2025
Duration: 4:50

This video explores the history and design of the Ortgies pistol, a popular handgun in Germany during the 1920s. It details the pistol's unique features, such as its screw-less construction and grip safety mechanism. The video also touches on its production history, export to the US, and notable users like John Dillinger, clarifying misconceptions about its military service.

Quick Summary

The Ortgies pistol was a popular handgun for personal protection in 1920s Germany, known for its unique screw-less design and grip safety. It was not a military firearm and was notably used by John Dillinger.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction to the Ortgies Pistol
  2. 00:21Underappreciated Handgun Design
  3. 00:31The Ortgies Company and Founder
  4. 00:53Design Origin and Carl August Bruning
  5. 01:07Production Begins
  6. 01:24Production Period (1919-1924)
  7. 01:30Blowback Auto Design and Features
  8. 01:36Screw-less Construction
  9. 01:38Unique Safety Arrangement
  10. 02:16Ortgies Company Acquisition by Deutsche Werke
  11. 02:25Deutsche Werke's Post-War Strategy
  12. 02:46Deutsche Werke Production Numbers
  13. 02:58Misconceptions about Military Service
  14. 03:29Origin of War Trophies
  15. 03:50Popular Export and US Market
  16. 03:57John Dillinger and the Ortgies Pistol
  17. 04:23No Military Contract
  18. 04:28Collector's Item Status
  19. 04:44Condition of Surviving Examples

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Ortgies pistol used for in the 1920s?

The Ortgies pistol was primarily used for personal protection in Germany during the 1920s. It was a popular handgun for civilians seeking self-defense during that era.

What makes the Ortgies pistol's design unique?

The Ortgies pistol is notable for its innovative design, featuring virtually no screws. Even the grips are held in place by springs, and it incorporates a unique grip safety on the backstrap.

Was the Ortgies pistol a military firearm?

No, the Ortgies pistol never secured a military contract. It was out of production for 15 years before World War II, making it unlikely to have been issued by the Wehrmacht. Many were likely private arms confiscated as war trophies.

Who was a famous user of the Ortgies pistol?

The notorious American gangster John Dillinger was a known user of the Ortgies pistol. His specific firearm is reportedly preserved in the FBI museum in Washington D.C.

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