Walthers and Krieghoffs!

Published on September 11, 2024
Duration: 21:08

This video showcases a diverse collection of vintage and collectible firearms, primarily focusing on German pistols from the WWII era. The presenter details various models including Walther PPK and PP pistols with unique grip variations, a Liberator replica, a rare Luger Artillery with matching magazine, and several Krieghoff Lugers in varying conditions. The discussion highlights specific production years, serial number ranges, proof marks, and historical context, offering insights into their rarity and collector value.

Quick Summary

Rare Walther PPK and PP pistols are discussed, including models with unique plum or gray grips and Waffen 359 proof marks indicating military issuance. Early production Walther PPs from 1929 and late-war 'GI mismatch' examples are also featured, highlighting variations in grips, serial numbers, and factory markings.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Unusual Firearms
  2. 00:17Liberator Pistol Replicas
  3. 01:30Boxed Walther PPK with Accessories
  4. 02:51SS Variation Walther PPK
  5. 03:47Walther PP with Plum Grips (Waffen 359)
  6. 05:17Walther PPK with Pale Grips
  7. 06:03Commercial Walther PPK with Unique Grips
  8. 06:21Walther PPK with Rare Gray Grips (Waffen 359)
  9. 07:16Late War Walther PP with Wooden Grips (GI Mismatch)
  10. 09:53End of War Sauer Pistol (Last Ditch)
  11. 10:50Early Production Walther PP (1929)
  12. 12:04Engraved Dural Frame Walther PP
  13. 13:31Artillery Luger (1917) with Matching Magazine
  14. 14:41Krieghoff Lugers - Condition Overview
  15. 16:37Krieghoff Luger (1936) - S Code
  16. 16:42Krieghoff Luger (1937) - Wear and Restoration Potential
  17. 17:59Krieghoff Luger (1940) - Restored Example
  18. 19:04Commercial Krieghoff Luger (1937-38)
  19. 20:47Conclusion and Website Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a Liberator pistol replica valuable?

Original boxed Liberator pistols can be very expensive, sometimes costing thousands of dollars. Replicas, like those made by Vintage Firearms, are also available and are valued for their historical representation, though they do not command the same price as originals.

How can one identify an SS variation Walther PPK?

An SS variation Walther PPK can be identified by its serial number. For example, a serial number in the 205,000 range indicates it predates the slide numbering that began around 250,000, and falls within the expected range for SS production.

What are the characteristics of a rare gray grip Walther PPK?

Walther PPKs with rare gray grips are typically found in the transitional serial number range, around 368,000, which falls between the production of brown and black grips. These gray grips are considered uncommon and add to the collector value.

What is a 'GI mismatch' firearm, and how is it identified?

A 'GI mismatch' firearm is typically assembled from various parts by GIs as souvenirs, often at the end of a war. They may lack proper factory proof marks or have mismatched serial numbers on components like the slide and frame, indicating they were not assembled through legitimate factory channels.

Why are Artillery Lugers with matching magazines so rare?

Artillery Lugers are rare, and finding one with a matching serial number on its magazine is exceptionally uncommon. This matching of all original components significantly increases the collector value and desirability of the firearm.

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