Two K Date Sub Variations

[Dick Herman]

Here are two sub-variations of the K (1934) date P08 manufactured by Mauser (S/42).

Attempting to rearm, Hitler started to mass produce weapons with secret codes to initially hide their activities. The K was stamped on the receiver breech where the acceptance date usually went. The toggle links were stamped with S/42 to hide the manufacturer's identity.

These P08s represent the 2nd and 4th sub-variations of the K date P08. The 2nd variation is distinctive with numerous upper case S stamping marks and the front sight mount set back from the muzzle. The 4th variation has fewer markings than the other K date variations and was smaller production.