Dumb question--commercial Nazi guns

I have a Walther PP .22 which Marvin was kind enough to identify from its description and serial number as being a commercial model produced in WW2 Germany. I had always been told that the Nazi government practiced strict gun control and that pistols were sold only to the military or police. If so, what use would the military or police have for a .22 handgun? Could officers choose any type of pistol they wanted, and would there be any reason to select a .22?


I love shooting this pistol, but there is just something which feels better about using the Luger. I just wish I wasn't such a lousy shot with either gun.