Dutch 1936 booklet
 

Hi,

Recently purchased a charming 1936 Dutch publication, discussing the technology of some contemporary guns in use by Police and armed forces.

To my surprise the discussed Parabellum was a navy model. Together with some evidence provided by Martens & De Vries, in the form of a Navy present on a 'home guard' celebration menu, it appears that the Dutch Police forces had a good deal of Navy's in use. Most likely they were purchased from a dealer who secured some 1,700 German navies, captured or impounded after WW1.

http://forums.lugerforum.com/lfuploa...ellum_1936.jpg

The booklet is called 'Wapens en Vuurwapens', by K.W. Wijk, inspector of police, 1st class and published in 1936 bij J.A. Reesink in Velp.

It also discusses:

Walther Model 7
Sauer Model 1914
Ortgies
Parabellum
F.N. 1922
Mauser C96
F.N. 1935 (hi-power)

This offers a good overview of pistols in use at Dutch police forces during the late 30s.

Vlim, That is interesting. Neat book. You would'nt think that they would have used Navys. Due to the size. Seems they would want something alittle more compact.
If you happen to run across one of these Navys. Just slip it in to a box of fine Dutch chocolate, and send it to me. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Wink]" src="wink.gif" />
Ron

Ron,

Well, they probably just got 'em cheap :)

I'm thinking in lines of river police or coast guard issue as the Navy remains effective as an intermediate distance weapon.

In those days, Dutch police viewed the 9mm as too large/powerfull. Regular issue guns used the 7.65 browning or 7.63 or 6.35 calibers.

What is funny is the remark of the author that so many policemen were walking around with too little knowledge of handguns in the 1930s. The same discussion is held today in 2004. Some things never change :)

Vlim, I know. When I went to the Sheriff's office to apply for my concealed handgun license. I was talking to the deputy about handguns. I was'nt impressed. And it's alittle nerve racking to know that he is out there carrying a gun. Hope he does'nt shoot himself, or me!

Ron

I saw it all the time in the military and around police. They are simply a tool and sometimes not taken care of as well as they should be. Lots of gun knowledgeable cops around, but a lot are not overly interested...

Gerben,
If you ever run across another one of those booklets, I would like to add one to my library.
Ron

Ron,

Will keep an eye open.