P38 byf43 - Latest addition to my collection

CanadaCollector

CanadaCollector

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Location
Grafton, Ontario
Just picked up this fair condition Walther P38 byf43 from a forum member for a good price.

The good:
- all matching including the magazine
- no rust
- nice crisp rifling in the barrel
- fuctions flawlessly

The bad:
- very dirty (other than a quick pull through I dont think it had ever been thoroughly cleaned haha)
- much of the bluing has worn off
- pretty sure pistol grips are post war ones added on after not 100% sure though.
- missing lanyard loop (anyone know where I can pick one up?)

I'll post the pics so you folks can decide ;)
 
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Nice looking Mauser P38!!
Why do you think the grips are not original? From what I see they look good to me.
Good job on the collection!
Joe
 
Grips look good to me also.

I picked up younger brother today, BYF 44. I took the grips off for a quick peak and exactly the same. A little gently cleaning, gun oil, it will look good! .

-Steve
 
joe n said:
Nice looking Mauser P38!!
Why do you think the grips are not original? From what I see they look good to me.
Good job on the collection!
Joe
Click to expand...

Thanks Joe.

Just from the research ive done, apparently there should be specific factory markings on the inside of each grip but only the right grip has it. The left grip looks slightly newer and has no markings what so ever. Maybe im just being over picky but who knows :p
 
CanadaCollector said:
Thanks Joe.

Just from the research ive done, apparently there should be specific factory markings on the inside of each grip but only the right grip has it. The left grip looks slightly newer and has no markings what so ever. Maybe im just being over picky but who knows :p
Click to expand...

You may be correct, I will try to get some photos of my grips tomorrow.

-Steve
 
p38forum.com

They know P38s. I would ask about that grip there first, but Im pretty sure it should be marked.

They also have a for sale and want to buy section.
 
albayo,

If you want to help your friend.
Make sure that you know what grips are correct for the gun in question.
The same thing applies for the correct magazines.

You could try.

Heller Arms Ltd. - Thomas W. Heller (Parts and magazines for auto pistols)
P.O. Box 398, Saint Charles, M0 63302
phone 636-447-3006
hellerarms@webtv.net
 
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I ended up posting my query on p38forums and one of them sent me a p38 guide to grips, both of mine are authentic ww2 german. Just each one is from a different factory. Turns out some latewar grips didnt even have markings on them. My grips are also the right type and colour for my byf43. I wonder if the pistol came this way? Or if it was repaired during or after the war?

My magazine isnt matching but its not a huge deal since i plan on shooting it. I will probably buy one if one comes up. I still definitely need a lanyard loop and holster though!
 
I have a eagle/359 magazine no WaA beside the number. According to the chart it would be for an ac42-ac45 pistol . I need a 135 which is what I believe you meant to say lol. Not sure if i need one with the WaA or without? It would be considered an early war model would it not?
 
I really like your P38, I would not bother swapping grips. Most collectors do not like pieces being swapped, "correct" or not. Probably a wartime replacement, but no one knows for sure.
If the mag doesn't work for you, swap it out, but once again, it's all correct in my eyes.
Congratulations once again, and thank you for sharing :)
 
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