WW2 Original German Walther P.38 AC43 Caliber 9mm 1943 Pistol
SKU: 629
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-Stock
Manufacturer: Walther
Date Manufactured: 1943
Model: P.38
Caliber: 9mm
Serial Number: 5581
Markings: AC43, Waffen
Action Type: Toggle Action Striker-Fired Semi-Auto, Removable Magazine Fed
Capacity: 8 Rounds
Barrel Length: 5" Inch
Bore: 10/10
Grips: Ribbed grips
Condition: Excellent 93%
Mechanically: Excellent
Price: $2195.00
Seller Type: Classification: C&R / FFL
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: JL-1500
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
Offered here is an exceptional WW2 Original German Walther P.38 AC43 9mm Pistol, manufactured in 1943 during the height of wartime production. This fine example represents one of the most iconic and widely issued sidearms of the German Wehrmacht in the Second World War.
The “ac” manufacturer code designates production by Carl Walther GmbH in Zella-Mehlis, Germany. By 1943, Walther was operating at full capacity, producing P.38 pistols for front-line troops across all theaters of war. The AC43 variation is particularly desirable among collectors due to its balance of early-war machining quality and mid-war production characteristics.
Historical Overview
The Walther P38 was adopted in 1938 as Germany’s new standard-issue service pistol, replacing the more complex and costly Luger P.08. The P.38 introduced several modern innovations, including:
- Double-action/single-action trigger system
- Loaded chamber indicator
- External hammer
- Decocking safety lever
These features would later influence countless post-war service pistols around the world.
By 1943, the P.38 was firmly established as the backbone sidearm of German forces, issued to Wehrmacht, Luftwaffe, and other military personnel. AC43 examples saw service across the Eastern and Western Fronts during some of the most intense periods of the war.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Carl Walther (Code: ac)
- Year of Manufacture: 1943
- Caliber: 9mm Parabellum
- Barrel Length: 4.9 inches
- Action: Semi-automatic, DA/SA
- Magazine Capacity: 8 rounds
- Finish: Original wartime blued finish
- Grips: Correct wartime black Bakelite grips
Condition & Features
- Slide, frame, barrel, locking block, and other serialized components bear matching serial numbers
- Correct wartime Waffenamt inspection stamps present
- Proper AC43 slide markings with crisp factory roll stamp
- Matching or correct period magazine (where applicable)
The pistol retains a strong percentage of its original wartime finish with sharp edges and clear markings. Bore condition is excellent, with strong rifling and a bright interior. Controls function properly, and the pistol exhibits tight mechanical integrity consistent with careful preservation.
