Walther PP and PPK Magazine Variations | WW2 Pre-war and Wartime

Published on January 29, 2020
Duration: 48:08

This comprehensive guide details the intricate variations of Walther PP and PPK magazines produced before 1946, covering pre-war and wartime production. Expert Tom Whiteman explains how to identify specific models based on markings, base plates, follower types, and finger extension colors. The guide also includes practical advice on safe magazine maintenance, such as swapping base plates, emphasizing the importance of correct identification for collectors.

Quick Summary

Walther PP and PPK magazines from pre-war and wartime eras have distinct characteristics. Pre-war PP mags feature only the Walther banner, while wartime versions add caliber markings like 'PP 7.65mm'. PPK magazines evolved finger extension colors from tan to brown/grey/black, with flat bottoms common in wartime service.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Importance of Magazine Matching
  2. 02:44Pre-war Walther PP Magazine Variations
  3. 09:53Wartime Walther PP Magazine Variations
  4. 13:45Pre-war Walther PPK Magazine Variations
  5. 16:47Wartime Walther PPK Magazine Variations
  6. 23:06Rare Commercial 'Box' Magazines
  7. 25:15Specialty & Presentation Magazines
  8. 29:08Identifying Numbered Magazines (SS, Luftwaffe, Police)
  9. 33:579mm Kurz (.380 ACP) PP & PPK Magazines
  10. 37:20.22 Caliber PP & PPK Magazines
  11. 40:59.25 Caliber PP & PPK Magazines (Extremely Rare)
  12. 44:47Maintenance: Safely Swapping Magazine Base Plates

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I distinguish between pre-war and wartime Walther PP magazines?

Pre-war Walther PP magazines typically only feature the Walther banner. Wartime magazines often include specific model and caliber markings, such as 'PP 7.65mm', to prevent confusion and may have flat bottoms for military or police contracts.

What are the key differences in Walther PPK magazines between pre-war and wartime production?

Pre-war PPK magazines often have solid tan finger extensions. Wartime versions show a progression in finger extension colors from tan to brown, grey, and black. Military and police contracts during wartime frequently utilized flat-bottomed magazines instead of those with extensions.

How do I identify a .25 ACP (6.35mm) Walther PPK magazine?

The .25 ACP (6.35mm) Walther PPK magazines are extremely rare. They were uniquely constructed by soldering a Walther Model 8 magazine internally within a standard PPK magazine tube.

What are the common markings found on numbered Walther magazines for specific contracts?

SS magazines are usually factory-numbered on the spine. Luftwaffe magazines typically bear numbers on the bottom. Police-issued magazines might display cruder arsenal numbering directly on the side of the magazine body.

Related News

All News →

More General Videos You Might Like

More from Legacy Collectibles

View all →