WW2 Veteran Bring-Back Mauser P.38 | Kenneth Bridges

Published on May 25, 2022
Duration: 28:54

This guide details the disassembly and inspection of a 1943 Mauser P.38, emphasizing the importance of checking matching serial numbers on the slide, frame, barrel, and locking block. It highlights original factory condition indicators like 'in the white' springs and specific Waffen proof marks (Eagle 135). The process includes safely removing the slide, recoil spring, and locking block, and reassembling the firearm.

Quick Summary

The 'byf' marking on a Mauser P.38 pistol indicates it was manufactured by the Mauser factory. A post-war magazine can be identified by the Walther banner, absent on earlier models. 'Eagle 135' is the Mauser military inspector's mark, and original internal springs should be unblued ('in the white'). Bring-back papers can add 15-25% to a firearm's value.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction: Vet Bring-Back P.38
  2. 00:18Memorial Day Special & Giveaways
  3. 00:51The Gun and the Man: Kenneth Bridges
  4. 01:11Holster and Spare Magazine
  5. 01:59Bring Back Papers Value
  6. 02:38Kenneth Bridges' Service Details
  7. 03:25Dossier on Kenneth Bridges
  8. 04:42Honorable Discharge & Service Branch
  9. 05:17Africa Campaign & Truck Driver Role
  10. 05:36Sharpshooter Qualification on M1 Carbine
  11. 05:54Transporting 105mm Artillery Shells
  12. 06:4466th Infantry Division Route Map
  13. 07:0466th Division 'Panther Men'
  14. 08:35Arrival in Europe: England
  15. 09:16Role in Servicing 105mm Artillery Crews
  16. 09:41Dangers of Transporting Ammo at Night
  17. 10:28Surrender to the 66th Division
  18. 11:04Surrendering a Small Caliber Pistol
  19. 11:23Collector's Dream: Pile of Helmets
  20. 12:13General Kramer's Pistol and Insignia
  21. 12:25Identifying the Surrendered Pistol
  22. 13:01Maps and Entering Germany
  23. 13:13Bombed Out Cities and War's Impact
  24. 13:37Charles de Gaulle and Marching Through France
  25. 13:50Liberation of Sub-Camps (Evansey)
  26. 14:15The Complete Assembly
  27. 14:20Taking the Gun Apart
  28. 14:26Mauser P.38: Byf, 1943, M Block
  29. 14:38Waffen Stamp: Eagle 135
  30. 14:51Military Inspection Stamps and Proofs
  31. 15:10Reddish Grips and Material
  32. 16:14Magazine Markings: Eagle 359 vs. Eagle 135
  33. 17:07Checking Matching Numbers (Slide, Frame, Barrel)
  34. 17:24Checking the Locking Block
  35. 18:02Recoil Spring Condition ('In the White')
  36. 18:16Locking Block Condition
  37. 18:33Bore Condition: Mint
  38. 18:47All Matching and Proofed
  39. 18:50Conclusion: Kenneth Bridges' P.38
  40. 19:05Magazine Value Differences
  41. 19:22Bonus: G-Date Luger Introduction
  42. 19:441935 Holster Rarity
  43. 20:40G-Date Luger Proofs
  44. 21:30Fire Blue and Straw Yellow Parts
  45. 21:40Matching Numbers on Luger
  46. 22:13Rare Luger Tool
  47. 22:34Luger Spare Magazines (Nickel Tube)
  48. 23:55Luger Magazine Overstamp Issue
  49. 25:18Giveaways Begin: Books
  50. 26:14Hollowed-Out Library Books
  51. 26:57Eight Dollar Giveaway
  52. 27:11Gun Rugs and Holders
  53. 27:28Random Ammo Giveaway (30-06)
  54. 28:00Grand Prize: Signed Enola Gay/Bockscar Photo
  55. 28:40Thank You and Subscribe
  56. 28:45Upcoming Memorial Day Video

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the 'byf' marking on a Mauser P.38 signify?

The 'byf' marking on a Mauser P.38 pistol indicates that it was manufactured by the Mauser factory. This code is crucial for identifying the origin and production period of the firearm.

How can one identify a post-war P.38 magazine?

A post-war P.38 magazine can be identified by the presence of the Walther banner on it. Wartime and pre-war magazines did not feature this banner, making its appearance a clear indicator of post-war production.

What is the significance of 'Eagle 135' on a Mauser P.38?

'Eagle 135' is a Waffen stamp, serving as the military inspector's mark for firearms produced by Mauser. It signifies that the pistol passed military inspection and met service standards during its production.

What are key indicators of original condition for a P.38's internal parts?

For original condition, internal springs like the recoil and trigger springs on a P.38 should be 'in the white' (unblued). If these springs are blued, it often suggests the firearm may have been refinished.

How much value can bring-back papers add to a firearm?

Bring-back papers can significantly increase a firearm's value, typically adding 15% to 25%. This value can be even higher if the veteran who brought it back was a notable figure or had a particularly interesting story.

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