5th Variation Nazi Army Walther PP | Walk-in Wednesday

Published on November 30, 2019
Duration: 9:07

This video provides an in-depth review of a 5th variation Waffen stamped Walther PP pistol manufactured in 1945. It details the transition to the 'AC' factory code, the absence of slide legends, and the significance of proof marks. The instructor discusses the potential for mismatched serial numbers due to wartime production and the characteristics of weighted grips, including their common separation. The video also touches on the use of phosphate finishes and the meaning of the 'W' marking on unhardened steel parts.

Quick Summary

The 5th variation Nazi Walther PP, manufactured in 1945, is distinguished by the absence of a slide legend and the use of the 'AC' factory code. Its Waffen stamp confirms military issue. Mismatched serial numbers are often attributed to rushed wartime production, not GI assembly. The presence of an Eagle firing proof indicates official military approval.

Chapters

  1. 00:09Introduction: Cyber Walk-in Wednesday
  2. 00:32Introducing the 5th Variation Walther PP (1945)
  3. 01:34No Slide Legend & AC Factory Code
  4. 02:19Mismatched Serial Numbers: Slide vs. Frame
  5. 03:02GI Assembled vs. Factory Production
  6. 03:15Eagle Firing Proof Significance
  7. 03:54Caliber and Finish Details
  8. 04:07Weighted Grip Panel Separation
  9. 04:15Pre-War vs. Wartime Grips
  10. 05:18Late War Grip Materials (Wood)
  11. 05:59Lesson Learned: Don't Alter History
  12. 07:14Phosphate Magazine and Safety Lever
  13. 07:41The 'W' Marking: Unhardened Steel?
  14. 08:25Mystery of 'W' vs. 'U' Markings
  15. 09:05Conclusion & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes the 5th variation Nazi Walther PP from earlier models?

The 5th variation Walther PP, produced in 1945, notably lacks the traditional slide legend. Instead, it features the 'AC' factory code and is often identified by its Waffen stamp, indicating military issue. These changes reflect wartime production adjustments.

Why might a 1945 Walther PP have mismatched serial numbers on the slide and frame?

Mismatched serial numbers by a single digit on a 1945 Walther PP are typically due to expedited wartime production. Workers were likely focused on output, leading to less meticulous attention to matching parts, rather than intentional GI assembly.

What is the significance of the Eagle firing proof on a 1945 Walther PP?

The Eagle firing proof signifies that the firearm underwent official testing and was approved by the German military. This mark distinguishes it from firearms assembled by Allied soldiers as souvenirs, which generally lack such proof marks.

What causes the separation commonly seen in the weighted grips of older Walther PPs?

The weighted grips on older Walther PPs contain a metal insert. Expansion and contraction of this insert due to temperature fluctuations can cause stress on the grip material, leading to separation or cracks, a common characteristic of these grips.

What does the 'W' marking on a 1945 Walther PP likely indicate?

The 'W' marking found on some 1945 Walther PPs is widely believed to signify 'unhardened' steel. This suggests that certain metal hardening processes were omitted during manufacturing to speed up production and conserve resources.

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