Question about Russian Capture P38 Markings...

[Alex_Zues]

I figured this belonged here since it's not so much about pistols as it is about wartime markings.

There's got to be a thread already up discussing it, but I can't find it via the search function. I was able to find one pictured source (see above) via google which says that an 'X' would be stamped in. Is that it for markings?. If you can direct me, I'd appreciate it.

Specifically I want to know how one could tell if a WWII P38 is RC or not? Local gunshop has one on consignment for sale nicely below the recently brought in RCs are going for. Rifling is still strong, I didn't notice any nasty pitting spots, and I can see the little angry eagles still stamped in. I would have taken a photo, but I just happened to see it while looking for something completely different, so I wasn't prepared to do homework. I do want to go back and check the codes and for matching parts.

So... is the stamped X the only indicator of Soviet possession?

Cheers, Al

 

[gewehr76]

x

I bought one as well.
usually if you see the x on slide or frame it means RC. Look for paint in F and S letters of the safety. if none visible, it means RC dip bluing method removed the paint.
One thing I noticed on mine behind the take down lever, there is UN import marking which is not visible when lever is in lock position.
Other than that look for matching numbers and waffenampts. Mine is absolutely mint with excellent barrel. Its hit and miss with RC p38's some are matching, some are not. Ussr didn't care in those days, as long as it functioned it was ok to use in the fight for communism.

g76

 

[agentcq]

As stated the "X" will usually be on the slide. Several of the RC's don't even have an "X" stamped on them (simply forgot). The quality is all over the place, from mint bored to pitted bore, all matching parts to forced matched crossed out parts, to non-refinished to reblued.

Tought to tell if the blueing is original or not on yours, someone would need to inspect it in person. Take down the pistol and see if all the parts match.

Nevertheless, it looks like a great P38 and an interesting piece of history.