Production Overview | WW2 Polish Radom VIS P.35 Pistol

Published on May 23, 2020
Duration: 24:07

This video provides a comprehensive overview of the World War II Polish Radom VIS P.35 pistol, detailing its development, variations, and production history under both Polish and Nazi German control. The presenter, an experienced firearms enthusiast, highlights key identifying features, historical context, and collector value, offering insights into the pistol's evolution from its inception in the 1930s through its wartime production.

Quick Summary

The Polish Radom VIS P.35 pistol, named 'VIS' for strength, was developed in the 1930s and featured the Polish Eagle. During Nazi occupation, it was designated the P.35 and produced with German inspection stamps. Key identifiers include finish, markings, and the presence or absence of a stock slot and three levers.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction to Radom Pistols
  2. 00:30Early Polish Development
  3. 01:421930s Design Inspiration
  4. 02:08First Mass Production: 1936
  5. 02:45Polish Radom Eagle Name
  6. 02:57Three Lever System Explained
  7. 03:31FB Radom Factory Markings
  8. 04:10VIS Meaning and Markings
  9. 04:47Caliber: 9mm Luger
  10. 05:02Serial Number Production Details
  11. 05:30September 1939 Invasion
  12. 05:51Unique Polish Holsters
  13. 07:53Nazi Takeover of the Factory
  14. 09:02Nazi Production Begins (P.35)
  15. 09:47Nazi Lettering System
  16. 11:13Finish Comparison: Polish vs. German
  17. 11:53Production Evolution: Bluing
  18. 12:27Navy Issued Radoms
  19. 13:40Kriegsmarine Specifics
  20. 14:37Stock Slot Elimination
  21. 15:28Deteriorating Construction
  22. 16:06Late War Lever Reduction
  23. 17:36Finish Changes: Salt Blue to Phosphate
  24. 18:14Steyr Factory Assembly
  25. 18:35Waffen Proofs: Radom vs. Steyr
  26. 19:00Why Move to Steyr Factory?
  27. 19:33Sabotage and Theft by Polish Workers
  28. 20:39Parts to Steyr, Assembly in Austria
  29. 21:07Slave Labor in Steyr Factory
  30. 21:33Holster Comparison: Polish vs. German
  31. 22:00German Designation: P.35
  32. 22:371944 Phosphated Gun and Holster
  33. 23:23Production Overview Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the Polish Radom VIS P.35 pistol?

The Polish Radom VIS P.35 pistol was developed in Poland in the 1930s, inspired by successful designs like the Colt 1911 and Browning Hi-Power, to establish a national firearm production capability.

What does 'VIS' mean on the Polish Radom pistol?

'VIS' is a Latin word meaning 'strength,' and it serves as the name of the pistol. It is often accompanied by the Polish Eagle emblem, signifying its national origin.

How did the Nazi occupation affect the production of the Radom VIS P.35?

Following the Nazi invasion in 1939, the Radom factory was taken over. Production continued under German control, with the pistol being designated the P.35 and featuring German inspection stamps and serial number systems.

What are the key differences between Polish and German-produced Radom VIS P.35 pistols?

Polish-produced models typically have a 'dusty blue' finish and Polish Eagle markings. German-produced P.35s feature German Waffen stamps, a shinier rust blue or salt blue finish, and later production saw changes like lever reduction and different grip materials.

Why were some Radom VIS P.35 pistols assembled in the Steyr factory?

Due to sabotage and theft by Polish workers, many Radom parts were sent to the Steyr factory in Austria for final assembly. These pistols often bear the Steyr Waffen proof (623) and some were made using slave labor.

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