Odds & Ends | WW2 Pistols

Published on April 15, 2022
Duration: 25:57

This video provides an in-depth look at various World War II-era pistols and firearms, presented by a knowledgeable collector. The presenter details unique variations, historical context, and specific features of models including the Walther PP and PPK, FÉMARU 37M, Mauser P.38, and even a Vickers machine gun. The content focuses on identifying rare features, manufacturing differences, and historical significance, offering insights valuable to firearms collectors and historians.

Quick Summary

The 'AC no date' Mauser P.38 is a rare variant produced for only about a month before the 'AC 40' designation was added. These pistols are highly sought after by collectors, especially if their original finish remains unaltered. Some examples may have been altered with cold blue, which can detract from their value.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction & Teaser
  2. 00:49Smallest Pistol: Engraved Walther Model 9
  3. 01:13Walther Model 9 Engraving Details
  4. 03:17Walther PP vs PPK Size Comparison
  5. 03:35Party Leader Vinyl Holster
  6. 04:43Persian Contract Walther PP (1938)
  7. 05:21Farsi Markings on Persian PP
  8. 06:21Persian PP Slide Disassembly & Proof Marks
  9. 07:48Walther PP 9mm Hold Open Reinforcement
  10. 08:52Bottom Release Magazine 7.65mm Variation
  11. 09:57PDM (Munich Police) Walther PP/PPK
  12. 10:40PDM Fluted Barrel & Dural Frame
  13. 11:25Railway Gun Walther PP (Arsenal Modification)
  14. 13:43Railway Gun Holster (1939)
  15. 14:17Early Satin Nickel Walther PP (1940)
  16. 14:47Reversed Serial Number on Early PP
  17. 15:56Early PP Features: Fat Safety & Heavy Hammer
  18. 16:47FÉMARU 37M (Luftwaffe Pistol)
  19. 17:46FÉMARU 37M Model 37 Details
  20. 19:32Mauser P.38 (AC 43 Dual Tone)
  21. 20:22P.38 Asterisk Meaning (Rejection Star)
  22. 21:37Rare Mauser P.38 (AC No Date)
  23. 22:21AC No Date P.38 Cold Blue Issue
  24. 24:13Colt Dragoon (Civil War Era)
  25. 25:03Vickers Water-Cooled Machine Gun (WW1)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the asterisk on a Mauser P.38?

An asterisk on a Mauser P.38 typically signifies a 'rejection star.' This means the firearm was initially rejected by an inspector during manufacturing but was later approved after adjustments were made to meet specifications. It indicates the gun went through a second inspection process.

How can one identify a rare 'Railway Gun' Walther PP?

Walther PP 'Railway Guns' from around 1940 were arsenal-modified, not factory-produced. Distinguishing features include roll-stamped numbering on the slide and magazine with a different font, which feels raised due to being stamped into hardened metal, unlike the smooth factory markings on true SS guns.

What makes the 'AC no date' Mauser P.38 a rare variant?

The 'AC no date' Mauser P.38 is exceptionally rare because it was produced for only about a month before the 'AC 40' designation was added. This short production run makes it highly sought after by collectors, especially if its original finish remains unaltered.

What are the early features of a 1929 Walther PP?

Very early Walther PP pistols from 1929, within the first ~2500 produced, can be identified by a reversed serial number on the frame. They also feature proof marks in different locations, a non-blued slide on satin nickel finishes, a 'fat' 90-degree safety, a heavy hammer, and an extended barrel.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Legacy Collectibles

View all →