Product Detail

This P38 represents one of the rare "Zero" Series Variations, commonly known as field trials or prototype guns. Specifically, it is the Third Variation Zero Series, identified through the P38 Production Data available on the P38 Forum. The pistol boasts all matching parts, including pristine grips without any defacing. The only non-matching component is the magazine, which is also a Zero series magazine of the same variation but from a later production run in the same series. Notably, this firearm exhibits painted sights, a feature sometimes observed on Swedish contract guns and other Zero series pistols within the early 06000 serial range. While the purpose of this known factory add-on remains unknown, it adds a distinctive element to the piece.

The bore is in excellent condition, and the overall state of the pistol is pristine. The magazine also maintains its quality. We assess its condition at 90-100% due to its excellent state. The sights feature the correct orange and white paint, with the orange paint on the rear sight in pristine condition. However, the white sights on the front sight show some chips but remain intact. The firearm bears the E/359 Stamp on all its parts and features the asterisk symbol by the locking block, which also displays the last three digits of the serial number.

This variation is also rated at an "8" in rarity by Orv Reichart (Mr. P38), who was the foremost expert on these pistols. This acknowledgment further underscores the exceptional rarity and significance of this particular P38!

Notably, this firearm hails from Peter Kokalis's personal collection and was showcased in two of his articles during his tenure at both Firearm News and Shotgun News. The articles are titled:

• Small arms of the German World War II-era Fallschirmjager: Part 1. (July 20th, 2016 - Firearm News)​ (The Free Library Archive)

• P.38 Masterpiece or misfit? (April 20th, 2010 - Shotgun News)​ (The Free Library Archive)

In essence, this pistol is presented in the exact condition discussed by Mr. Kokalis in those articles and remains as well-preserved as when he wrote about it. It stands as a commendable addition to any World War II, P38, or German small arms collector's repertoire!