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From the Vault: Heinrich Himmler's Walther PP Pistol

Brownells, Inc.
Published on September 13, 2019
Category: Reviews
Duration: 4:04

This 'From the Vault' episode from Brownells, Inc. showcases Heinrich Himmler's personal Walther PP pistol, presented by Rock Island Auction House. The video details the pistol's history, its development as the first commercially successful double-action blowback handgun in 1929, and its original caliber options (.32, .22 Rimfire, .25). It highlights the pistol's unique ornate oak leaf engravings, SS emblem, Swastika, and 'HH' initials, along with pre-1940 Crown N proof marks. The expert presentation emphasizes the firearm's remarkable preservation and historical significance.

Tags

Walther PP
Heinrich Himmler
World War II
Historical Firearms
Engraved Pistols
SS Emblem
German Police
German Army
Manurhin Production
Fritz Walther

Quick Summary

Heinrich Himmler's personal Walther PP pistol is a rare historical artifact, distinguished by ornate oak leaf engravings, SS emblem, Swastika, and 'HH' initials. Developed in 1929, the Walther PP was the first successful double-action blowback handgun, initially chambered in .32, .22 Rimfire, and .25 calibers.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Video Introduction: Himmler's Walther PP
  2. 00:18Walther PP History and Features
  3. 00:41Walther PP Caliber Options
  4. 00:51Police and Military Use of Walther PP
  5. 01:05Post-War Production of Walther PP
  6. 01:21Himmler's Personal Firearm Identification
  7. 01:41Unique Engravings and Markings on Himmler's PP
  8. 02:29Pistol's Preservation and Acquisition
  9. 03:34Rarity and Craftsmanship of Himmler's PP

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Heinrich Himmler's Walther PP pistol historically significant?

Heinrich Himmler's personal Walther PP is significant due to its provenance as the firearm of a high-ranking SS official and architect of the Final Solution. It features unique ornate oak leaf engravings, the SS emblem, a Swastika, and 'HH' initials, alongside pre-1940 proof marks, making it a rare historical artifact.

When was the Walther PP pistol developed and what were its initial features?

The Walther PP was developed in 1929 and was the first commercially successful double-action blowback handgun. Early models, like the one featured, included a 90-degree safety and were originally chambered in .32 ACP, .22 Rimfire, and a limited number in .25 caliber.

What does 'PP' stand for on the Walther pistol?

'PP' on the Walther pistol stands for 'Pistole Polizei,' indicating its initial design and adoption for use by German police forces. It was later also issued to German Army officers during World War II.

How was the Walther PP pistol produced after World War II?

Following World War II, production of the Walther PP continued in France by Manurhin. Later, production resumed in Germany after Fritz Walther escaped to the West, and the PP and PPK models are still produced today.

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