HZa marked

On other Third Reich small arms the HZa marking means Depot level rework and or replacement. I would think P.38's are no different. This mark, to my knowledge is fairly rare on P.38s, I would guess that most parts replacement occured at some level below the Depot (ie the unit). Depot level work is usually reserved for a major overhaul or repair. Check to determine if the pistol shows signs of a period (German) re-blue (like pitting, dings or wear UNDER the existing blue). By the way, the abbrev. is for Heers Zeug Ampt and the number of the Depot.