Walther P38 Failure Day!

Published on May 12, 2018
Duration: 14:36

This video details a range day with a 1942 Walther P38, highlighting two significant failures: a mechanical issue with the loaded chamber indicator and ammunition-related short-stroking. The analysis reveals the indicator can cause malfunctions and that the P38 cycled better with Tula steel-cased ammo than Blazer Brass. The discussion also touches on historical design choices and post-war improvements in models like the P4.

Quick Summary

The Walther P38 experienced a mechanical failure when its loaded chamber indicator jumped its rails, forcing the gun out of battery. It also suffered short-stroking with Blazer Brass ammo but ran reliably with Tula steel-cased ammunition, highlighting potential ammo sensitivity and design liabilities.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 1942 Walther P38
  2. 01:19Stage Description: 2G-ACM Pistol
  3. 03:21Mechanical Failure: Chamber Indicator Issue
  4. 05:59Ammunition Compatibility: Blazer Brass vs. Tula
  5. 07:50Successful Run & Lessons Learned
  6. 11:41Historical Context: P4 Design Changes
  7. 13:21The Pistol's History: Combat Veteran

Frequently Asked Questions

What mechanical failure occurred with the Walther P38 during the range test?

The Walther P38 experienced a mechanical failure when its loaded chamber indicator jumped its rails, forcing the gun out of battery. This required a field repair to remove the faulty part.

Did the Walther P38 have issues with specific ammunition types?

Yes, the vintage P38 suffered from short-stroking with Blazer Brass ammunition. However, it cycled reliably when using Tula steel-cased ammunition, indicating a sensitivity to ammunition power.

What historical context is provided about the Walther P38's design?

The video discusses that features like the loaded chamber indicator were sometimes included for officer inspection. Post-war models, like the P4, addressed design flaws by removing such components.

How can a loaded chamber indicator cause a firearm malfunction?

A loaded chamber indicator, if not properly secured or if its components fail (like jumping rails), can physically impede the firearm's action, preventing it from going fully into battery and thus causing a failure to fire or cycle.

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