9 mm Pistole 38 (Walther): Automatic Pistol

This weapon is steadily taking its place as the standard issue for the German Army. It is even believed to be gradually replacing the Luger (Pistole ’08) as the official German military sidearm.

Although the Walther lacks the stopping power of the U.S. Colt .45, it is, nevertheless, a handy weapon because of its good balance and its double action. This latter feature enables the weapon to be fired simply by squeezing the trigger without cocking the hammer. It is one of the few military automatic pistols with the double action feature.

The Walther is a recoil-operated pistol with a slide that moves directly to the rear, resembling in this respect the Colt rather than the Luger. It is fed by an eight-round magazine that fits into the pistol butt. The safety catch is located at the left rear of the slide. There is also a device which enables a quick check in order to determine whether or not there is a cartridge in the chamber. This is in the form of a small pin which protrudes from the back of the slide when a cartridge is in the chamber.

German standard 9 mm Parabellum ammunition is regular issue, but the pistol will accommodate British and United States manufactured 9 mm Parabellum ammunition for the Sten and Lanchester submachine guns. It will also use Italian Mod. 38 9 mm ammunition designed for the Beretta submachine gun.

A leather holster, spare magazines, and a magazine holder are issued with this weapon.

SPECIFICATIONS

German: p. 203