Walther AP Pistol
 

This gun was an experimental pistol which shows how the P.38 evolved. I have done a comparison to a 3rd variation 0 series which is the final configuration of the pistol as it was used in WWII.

The AP gun shown also has a dural frame.

http://forum.lugerforum.com/lfupload/ap_048.jpg

Very, very cool Mark. You do have some of the neatest stuff in your collection and your magic with presenting them photographically is to be admired by all. Wish you didn't live so far away, as I'd come by for lessons.
Lyn

Lyn, its called air miles, they'll let you fly from Phoenix to Boston, no problem.


Mark, great find, how many of these pre-production guns were made?

That AP is an outstanding gun and one of the "holy grails" of collecting. Congratulations on owning a world class piece.

Thanks guys!

About 50 of the AP guns were manufactured. The very first in the production run had long barrels and a detachable shoulder stock very similar to the C96 stocks.

If any of you care to visit "Bean Town" next year I may have much of my collection on display.

There may even be a spaghetti and meat ball dinner in it for you, just ask Ed!

Mark

Mark,

I will be passing through on my way to Maine in early August '09... I would like to make a reservation :D

John,

Let me know when you are around, it would be great to meet you.

Mark

Will applying the safety on decock the internal hammer?

Alvin,

Yes it will .... I have yet to determine if the firing pin retracts into the slide. The early Walther 0 series had this feature.

The later P.38 design locks the firing pin in place. I have not taken the top cover off to determine what the safety is like.

Mark