Walther P38 (AC43)...Awesome German Combat Handgun

Published on March 17, 2019
Duration: 30:36

This video provides an in-depth review of the Walther P38 AC43, a World War II German combat handgun. The presenter details its historical context, design features, and performance, highlighting its innovative double-action/single-action trigger and minimal barrel movement for accuracy. The review includes a demonstration of its disassembly and reassembly process, along with shooting impressions and a discussion of its pros and cons as a historical and functional firearm.

Quick Summary

The Walther P38 AC43 is a significant World War II German combat handgun, noted for its innovative double-action/single-action trigger, cost-effective mass production design, and accurate shooting characteristics due to its minimal barrel movement mechanism.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Walther P38 AC43
  2. 01:11Basic Specifications
  3. 02:22Features and Design
  4. 03:16Double-to-Single Action Trigger
  5. 04:02Disassembly and Takedown Lever
  6. 04:22Construction and Grips
  7. 04:32Magazine Release and Slide Stop
  8. 04:48Decocker and Extractor
  9. 05:14Sights and Loaded Chamber Indicator
  10. 06:14Slide Serrations
  11. 06:26History and Adoption
  12. 06:35Serial Number and Production Blocks
  13. 07:16Manufacturers: Walther, Mauser, Spreewerk
  14. 07:43Total Production Numbers
  15. 08:06Comparison to PP/PPK
  16. 08:30Manufacturer Codes (AC, byf, etc.)
  17. 09:03Proof Markings and Imperial Eagle
  18. 09:28Post-War P1 and Later Models
  19. 10:16Summary of Cool Features
  20. 10:51Detailed Disassembly
  21. 11:16Locking Block Mechanism Explained
  22. 11:41Internal Components (Springs, Hammer)
  23. 12:14Reassembly Process
  24. 12:51Inside Grips and Mainspring
  25. 13:50Final Assembly and Range Prep
  26. 15:49Range Footage
  27. 16:38Shooting Impressions
  28. 17:01Shooting at 40 Yards
  29. 18:41Performance at Range
  30. 19:43Trigger Weight and Feel
  31. 21:41Shooting Issues and Reliability
  32. 22:01Ejector Design
  33. 23:10Rounds Fired and Overall Experience
  34. 24:21Pros and Cons
  35. 25:17Pros: Soft Shooting, Accuracy, Sights
  36. 26:23Pros: Double-to-Single Action, Extractor Placement
  37. 26:55Pros: Easy Breakdown, Smooth Slide
  38. 27:16Pros: Paved Way for Modern Handguns
  39. 28:15Cons: Ejection Issues, Heel Mag Release
  40. 28:33Use and Collector's Value
  41. 29:35Overall Opinion and Rating
  42. 30:03Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the 'AC43' marking on the Walther P38?

The 'AC43' marking on a Walther P38 indicates that the firearm was manufactured by Walther (using the code 'AC') in the year 1943. This code was part of a German system during WWII to obscure the identity and location of arms manufacturers from Allied forces.

How does the Walther P38's double-action/single-action trigger system work?

The P38 features a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger. The first shot can be fired by pulling the trigger in double-action mode, which cocks and then releases the hammer. Subsequent shots are in single-action mode, where the hammer is already cocked by the slide cycling, resulting in a lighter trigger pull.

What makes the Walther P38's design innovative for its time?

The P38 was innovative for its time due to its cost-effective mass production design, its double-action/single-action trigger allowing for safer carry, and its unique locking block mechanism that minimizes barrel movement, contributing to improved accuracy and influencing modern handgun designs.

What are the main pros and cons of the Walther P38?

Pros include its soft shooting, accuracy due to minimal barrel movement, effective sights for its era, and the advanced DA/SA trigger. Cons can include occasional ejection issues, a heel-style magazine release that some find less intuitive, and the general wear and tear associated with a 75+ year old firearm.

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