German, WW2, Mauser P38 Semi-Automatic Service Pistol “byf 43”, Matching Numbers 1254h, Waffenamt 135, Original Bakelite Grips, Correct Magazine, EU Deactivated

*German, WW2, Mauser P38 Semi-Automatic Service Pistol “byf 43”, Matching Numbers 1254h, Waffenamt 135, Original Bakelite Grips, Correct Magazine, EU Deactivated*

Serial No: 1254 h

A superb World War Two German Mauser-produced P.38 semi-automatic service pistol, manufactured at the Mauser-Werke factory in Oberndorf am Neckar in 1943. The left side of the slide is crisply stamped “P.38 byf 43”, the wartime manufacturer’s code identifying Mauser production during one of the peak years of German arms manufacture.

This example retains matching serial numbers 1254 h across the principal components including the slide, frame and barrel assembly, placing it within the desirable “h” production block of 1943. Matching examples such as this are especially sought after by collectors as they retain their original factory integrity. Inspection marks consist of clear Eagle over 135 (WaA135) Waffenamt stamps, the military acceptance mark assigned to the Mauser factory. These inspection marks are present on the slide, frame, barrel assembly and magazine, confirming correct wartime inspection and period components. The slide bears the correct wartime model designation “P.38” with the full stop, struck in the larger die style typical of Mauser production during this period. The pistol retains its original brown ribbed Bakelite grips, a standard feature of mid-war P.38 manufacture. Mechanically the pistol retains moving elements appropriate to its deactivated status: the slide cycles smoothly, the trigger moves under spring tension, and the magazine ejects correctly, allowing the design and mechanism of this iconic service pistol to be appreciated.

The pistol is accompanied by a correct wartime steel P.38 magazine, finished in military blue/black. The magazine body is stamped “P.38v”, a marking commonly encountered on mid-war P38 magazines associated with Mauser production. The spine bears the Eagle over 135 (WaA135) Waffenamt inspection stamp used by the Mauser factory at Oberndorf. The magazine retains the correct single-pin floorplate, a feature typical of early to mid-war P38 magazines and entirely consistent with 1943 production. P.38 magazines were not normally serial numbered to individual pistols, but were accepted with the appropriate Waffenamt inspection marks.

Approx. Measurements – Barrel length: 12.7 cm (5 in). Overall length: 21 cm.

Historical Note:
The Walther P.38 was adopted by the German Wehrmacht in 1938 to replace the Luger P08, offering a far more modern and practical service pistol. It introduced the double-action/single-action trigger system, allowing the pistol to be safely carried with a round chambered while remaining instantly ready for use. Wartime production was undertaken by three principal manufacturers: Walther (code “ac”), Mauser (code “byf”, later “svw”), and Spreewerk (code “cyq”). Mauser began large-scale production in 1942, with 1943 representing one of the highest output years as German arms manufacture intensified.

The P.38 proved robust, reliable and simple to manufacture, leading to its widespread issue to officers, armoured crews, paratroopers and specialist troops across all theatres of the war. Its innovative design went on to influence numerous post-war service pistols and remains one of the most recognisable military handguns of the Second World War.

*Condition*
The pistol presents very well with clearly struck “P.38 byf 43” slide markings and strong WaA135 inspection stamps throughout. Serial numbers 1254 h remain matching across the slide, frame and barrel assembly. The original Bakelite grips show honest service wear consistent with age. The slide cycles correctly, the trigger moves under spring tension and the magazine ejects properly. The safety markings retain visible colour to the red “F” (Feuer) and yellow/white “S” (Sicher) positions. The pistol has been professionally EU deactivated and certified by the Birmingham Gun Barrel Proof House, and is accompanied by the official deactivation certificate. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

RQMHOOXAAOO_2377231110