Walk in Wednesday, WW2 9mm Pistols

Published on November 15, 2024
Duration: 18:02

This "Walk-in Wednesday" episode from Legacy Collectibles showcases a collection of World War II German 9mm pistols. The video details rare Luger variations like the KU and commercial models, discusses Browning High Powers with different inspector proofs, and examines three P38 variations including a rare police contract model. The instructor provides insights into production codes, proof marks, and collector value for these historical firearms.

Quick Summary

Rare World War II German 9mm pistols are showcased, including KU Lugers assembled from mixed parts, commercial Lugers with unique markings, and Browning High Powers distinguished by inspector proofs like the rare Eagle 103. The video also details P38 variations, such as the dual-tone byf 44 and the scarce police contract byf 43, offering insights into their production and collector value.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Collection Overview
  2. 00:56Rare KU Luger & Pigskin Holster
  3. 02:09KU Luger Variation Explained (Mauser Parts)
  4. 03:02KU Luger: Leftover Parts & Arsenal Assembly
  5. 04:01KU Luger Value & Collector Appeal
  6. 05:16Rare Commercial Krieghoff Luger
  7. 06:04Commercial Luger Proofs & Barrel Issues
  8. 07:19Commercial Luger Markings & Serial Range
  9. 08:56Late Addition: K Date Luger (Mauser S42)
  10. 09:25K Date Luger: Earliest Military Luger
  11. 10:28Browning High Powers (9mm Luger)
  12. 11:03High Power Inspector Proofs: Waffen 613
  13. 11:19High Power Inspector Proofs: Eagle 103 (Rare)
  14. 12:33High Power Inspector Proofs: Waffen 140 (Common)
  15. 13:25P38 Variations (9mm Luger)
  16. 14:08P38 byf 44 (Mauser Dual Tone)
  17. 14:55P38 AC41 (Walther High Polish)
  18. 16:17P38 byf 43 (Rare Police Contract)
  19. 17:13Conclusion & Tomorrow's Video Preview

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key characteristics of a KU Luger variation?

A KU Luger is a rare variation assembled from leftover parts by an arsenal, often after regular production ceased. These pistols can feature mixed components from different eras and manufacturers, and are identified by the 'KU' suffix on their serial number, indicating an arsenal rebuild.

How can one identify a rare Browning High Power variant?

Rarity in Browning High Powers is often determined by the inspector proofs. The Eagle 103 proof is considered rarer than the more common Waffen 140 proof due to lower production numbers for the 103 variant, making it more valuable to collectors.

What makes a P38 police contract model significant?

A P38 with a police eagle L proof signifies it was originally assembled for the military but then diverted to a police contract. This diversion makes these pistols rarer than standard military-issue P38s and thus more desirable and valuable to collectors.

What is the significance of the 'K' code on a Luger?

The 'K' code, often seen as a K date proof, on a Luger signifies production from 1934. This year is particularly important as it was the first year Mauser manufactured Lugers, marking the beginning of their military production.

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