Make: Walther, imported by Navy Arms

Model: PP

Serial Number: 97165

Year of Manufacture: 1960-1961

Caliber: .32 ACP, 7.65mm

Action Type: Single/Double Action Semi-Auto Pistol fed by Removable Magazine

Barrel Length: 3 7/8"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a short blade integral to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a "U"-notch dovetailed into the slide. The top of the slide has a thin rib that has fine wavy serrations to reduce glare.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered black plastic with Walther banner logos at their tops. The grips show even light handling wear. There is scattered light scuffing with some nicks and scratches. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original. The slide and frame are serial-matched.

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, just a little stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 80% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at all edges. The slide has light wear on each side at the front edges. The grip areas have surface oxidation and areas gone to a light patina. There is some other scattered minor oxidation. There are some light nicks, scuffs and scratches. The action shows light operational wear. The screw head is sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: A single 8-round Walther magazine is included.

Our Assessment: The Walther PP, or Polizeipistole, was introduced in 1929 and found great success both commercially and with law enforcement agencies. While the Walther factory in Zella-Mehlis was liberated by American forces in 1945, the region found itself on the wrong side of the Iron Curtain after the war with the company relocating to Ulm. It took some time not only to set up the new factory, but to receive authorization from the Allied powers to produce firearms, with the PP starting to be made again in 1952, with much of the production being parts sent to Manurhin in France to finish and assemble into complete guns with some produced in Ulm by Walther.

This example was produced in 1960 or 1961, showing wear consistent with responsible use and possibly carry. It retains the majority of its original finish with serial-matching slide and frame, a good bore and strong mechanics. This West German Modell PP would make a neat addition to a Walther or Cold War-era pistol collection and should still prove to be a good shooter. Please see our photos and good luck!