Family Reunion - Three Himmler Engraved Sauer 38h Pistols In One Place!

Published on October 26, 2021
Duration: 16:09

This video showcases three rare Sauer 38h pistols presented by Heinrich Himmler to sharpshooters. The presenter details their historical context, unique engravings, high-polish finish, and specific serial number ranges, distinguishing them from standard military issue. The discussion highlights the rarity of these firearms, with fewer than ten known examples, and explores the historical context of their production and potential presentation during the final months of World War II.

Quick Summary

The Himmler engraved Sauer 38h presentation pistols are exceptionally rare, with fewer than 10 known examples and an estimated production of only 15-20. Ordered by Heinrich Himmler in January 1945 as awards for sharpshooters, they feature unique engravings, Himmler's autograph, and a high-polish finish, distinguishing them from standard military models.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction: A Reunion of Rare Pistols
  2. 00:52Background of the Presentation Gun
  3. 01:15Examining the Sauer 38h
  4. 01:36Himmler's Autograph and Inscription
  5. 02:03Comparing Logos: Presentation vs. Standard
  6. 02:16High Polish Finish and Condition
  7. 02:42Rarity and Known Examples
  8. 03:28Sniper Awards and Himmler's Directives
  9. 04:21The Three Guns Together
  10. 04:36Documented Examples and Production Numbers
  11. 05:05Delivery Uncertainty and Potential GI Pickups
  12. 05:33Case Specificity for Sauer
  13. 06:35Comparing the Three Guns: Autographs
  14. 07:01Identifying Fakes: Serial Range and Finish
  15. 07:36White Wax on the Pistols
  16. 08:08Zinc Triggers and High Polish
  17. 08:17Wear Patterns and Storage Hypothesis
  18. 09:51Turning Over the Pistols
  19. 10:02White Wax Comparison Revisited
  20. 11:15Extreme Expense of These Firearms
  21. 11:38Historical Documentation and Himmler's Order
  22. 12:09Himmler's Directive Details
  23. 13:02Himmler's Denial and War's End
  24. 13:30Production Estimates vs. Orders
  25. 13:43Order by Himmler at War's End
  26. 13:51Other Presentation Guns: Chrome Walders
  27. 14:36Nazi Psyche and Morale Building
  28. 15:19Awards Never Given Out?
  29. 15:34Waldorf Factory Pickups
  30. 15:52Conclusion: Fun of Collecting

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Himmler engraved Sauer 38h pistols so rare?

These presentation Sauer 38h pistols are exceptionally rare because fewer than 10 are known to exist, with estimates suggesting only 15 to 20 were ever manufactured. They were specifically ordered by Heinrich Himmler in early 1945 as awards for sharpshooters, featuring unique engravings and a high-polish finish.

What are the key identifying features of a Himmler presentation Sauer 38h?

Key identifiers include Heinrich Himmler's distinct autograph, the inscription 'Dem Scharfschützen' (For the Sharpshooter), a high-polish finish, and a special company logo distinct from standard models. The serial number range is also crucial, falling between approximately 475,000 and 500,000.

When were the Himmler presentation Sauer 38h pistols ordered and produced?

Heinrich Himmler ordered these presentation pistols in January 1945. Production likely occurred in February or March of that year, towards the very end of World War II. Their exact presentation status remains uncertain due to the war's conclusion.

What was the purpose of the Himmler presentation Sauer 38h pistols?

These pistols were intended as awards for German sharpshooters who achieved significant kill counts. Himmler's directives indicated that after 100 kills, a sniper could receive a pistol, binoculars, or a hunting rifle as a reward for their marksmanship.

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