WW2 Nazi Party Leader Pistol Variations | Pre-1946 Walther PP's and PPK's

Published on November 26, 2019
Duration: 32:02

This video delves into the variations of Walther PP and PPK pistols associated with Nazi Party officials and members, distinguishing between the RZM-marked pistols issued broadly to party members and the more exclusive 'Honor Weapon' variants. It provides detailed insights into identifying authentic markings, production timelines, and distinguishing features of these collectible firearms, while also cautioning against prevalent fakes.

Quick Summary

The RZM marking on Walther PPK pistols signifies procurement through the Nazi Party's Purchasing Department, often sold at a discount to members. Authentic RZM markings are acid-etched with a frosty background. While commonly associated with 1934-1935, RZM marked PPKs were produced in blocks later, including 1940. 'Honor Weapon' PPKs, appearing from 1938, were more prestigious, featuring unique grips and holsters.

Chapters

  1. 00:09Introduction & Video Purpose
  2. 00:14Redoing the Party Leader PPK Video
  3. 00:30Who Were the Party Leaders?
  4. 01:30Variation 1: RZM PPK
  5. 02:07Example: Carl's RZM PPK
  6. 02:41Example: Fritz's RZM PPK
  7. 04:38Meaning of RZM
  8. 05:02RZM PPK: Nazi Party Order
  9. 05:34RZM PPK Purchase Details
  10. 06:43Clarification: RZM Guns & Organizations
  11. 07:24Party Dues and Membership
  12. 07:55RZM PPK - First Variation Details
  13. 08:40Secret Database: Serial Numbers
  14. 09:06Examining RZM PPK Serial Numbers
  15. 10:13Muzzle Numbered RZM's (SS Guns)
  16. 10:50End of RZM Production & Anomalies
  17. 11:23Identifying Faked RZM Slides
  18. 11:52RZM Blocks in Million Range
  19. 12:25RZM Blocks in 1940
  20. 13:05Summary of RZM Block Orders
  21. 13:44RZM Marking Details
  22. 14:15RZM Etching vs. Refinishing
  23. 15:17RZM Slide vs. Standard Slide
  24. 15:53Million Series RZM with 60-Degree Safety
  25. 16:40Eagle N Proof RZM (1940)
  26. 16:53RZM Holster: The Aqua Holster
  27. 17:30RZM PPK Summary & Controversial RZM PP
  28. 18:26Controversial RZM PP Pistols
  29. 19:03Variation 2: Honor Weapon PPK
  30. 19:19Honor Weapon of the Party Leader
  31. 19:36No Evidence of Hitler Presentation
  32. 20:06Uniforms and Glory
  33. 20:34How to Get an Honor Weapon PPK
  34. 20:51Box Mag vs. Finger Extension
  35. 21:23Honor Weapon Purchase Mystery
  36. 21:54Honor Weapon Catalog Appearance (1938)
  37. 22:111938 Catalog Excerpt: Holster & Grip
  38. 22:35Party Leader Roles & Permission
  39. 22:58Honor Weapon Rig Value
  40. 23:10Fakes of Honor Weapons
  41. 23:19Identifying Fake Party Leader Grips
  42. 24:00Honor Weapon PPK Only
  43. 24:26Honor Weapon PPK Serial Ranges
  44. 25:21Holster for Honor Weapon
  45. 25:27Party Leader Holster Colors
  46. 26:22Brocade Party Leader Holster (1940)
  47. 27:04Shooter Prize PPK
  48. 27:26Permit to Carry & Usage
  49. 27:40Shooter Prize PPK (1938-1939)
  50. 28:04Variation 3: Black Party Leader Grip
  51. 28:13Controversy of Black Party Leader Grips
  52. 28:41Example: Black Party Leader PPK
  53. 29:07Black Grip Late War Guns (1944)
  54. 29:23Factory Reports on Black Grips
  55. 29:44GIS & Black Grips
  56. 30:03End of War Production & Fakes
  57. 30:37Black Party Leader Grip Authenticity
  58. 30:55Late War Presentations
  59. 31:38Final Thoughts on Black Grips
  60. 31:40Conclusion & Future Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the RZM marking on Walther PPK pistols?

The RZM marking on Walther PPK pistols signifies that the firearm was procured through the Nazi Party's Purchasing Department (Reichszugmittel). These pistols were often sold at a discount to party members, representing a perk of membership rather than exclusively being issued to high-ranking leaders.

How can I distinguish an authentic RZM PPK from a fake?

Authentic RZM markings were typically acid-etched, creating a frosty background with the RZM logo standing out. Refinished or faked guns often lack this specific etching detail. Checking for matching serial numbers internally on the slide can also help verify authenticity.

What is the difference between an RZM PPK and an 'Honor Weapon' PPK?

RZM PPKs were generally issued to a broader range of party members as a perk. The 'Honor Weapon' PPK, appearing around 1938, was a more prestigious item, often featuring unique grips and holsters, and was considered a symbol of distinction for party leaders, though not necessarily presented by Hitler himself.

Are black party leader grips for Walther PPK pistols authentic?

The authenticity of black party leader grips is debated. They are believed to have appeared late in the war (1944-1945) and were fitted to late-war guns. While some collectors believe they are real, many are faked, and their provenance is controversial.

What is the correct holster for an RZM PPK?

The correct holster for an RZM PPK is typically an 'Aqua' holster. Early versions featured a brass stud, while later ones used an aluminum stud. These holsters were standard tan leather and are considered appropriate for RZM marked pistols.

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