Third Reich Nazi Germany Walther PPK Pistol With Original Holster
The Walther PPK (Polizeipistole Kriminalmodell) is a compact semi-automatic pistol that was widely used during World War II, particularly by Nazi officers, high-ranking officials, and intelligence personnel. The 7.65mm (.32 ACP) version was one of the most common calibers used.
Our example is an original German 1942 Walther PPk serial No 376155K made in 1942 with its original holster, these were made commercially as well as for military use with many of the versions purchased by officers. There are proof marks to the slide and the ejection port with an Eagle over an N. All numbers are matching and it is deactivated to current specification as required by law.
The Holster was made by A Dittman of Berlin.
*Condition*
In excellent overall condition for its age with only minor pitting to either side of the slide due to being handled. Please see the pictures as these form part of our condition report.
Specifications:
Manufacturer: Carl Walther GmbH, Zella-Mehlis, Germany
Caliber: 7.65mm (.32 ACP)
Action: Blowback-operated, semi-automatic
Magazine Capacity: 7 rounds
Overall Length: 155mm (6.1 inches)
Barrel Length: 83mm (3.3 inches)
Weight: Approximately 590g (1.3 lbs) unloaded
Frame Material: Steel frame with blued or black finish
Grip: Bakelite or checkered wooden grips (depending on the production period)
Markings: Many WWII-era PPKs featured Nazi-era Waffenamt (WaA) proof stamps, eagle/swastika acceptance marks, or SS markings if issued to the Schutzstaffel.
Holster:
Typically made of brown or black leather, often stamped with RZM (Reichszeugmeisterei) markings or the manufacturer’s code.
Some were Luftwaffe-issued flap holsters, while others were police or SS-style open-top designs.
Historical Significance & WWII Use:
Early Development (Pre-WWII)
Introduced in 1931 as a compact version of the larger Walther PP, the PPK quickly gained popularity due to its concealability, reliability, and ease of use.
It was a favorite among German police, intelligence agents (Gestapo), and military officers due to its compact design compared to standard service pistols like the Luger P08 and Walther P38.
Use in Nazi Germany (1939–1945)
German Officers & SS Use:
High-ranking Wehrmacht officers, Luftwaffe pilots, and Kriegsmarine commanders often carried the PPK as a sidearm for self-defense.
It was also widely issued to the Gestapo (secret police) and SS officers due to its concealability and effectiveness in close-quarters combat.
Notorious Associations:
The PPK is infamously linked to Adolf Hitler, who used a 7.65mm Walther PPK to commit suicide in his Berlin bunker on April 30, 1945. His pistol had a black grip and was engraved with AH initials.
Air Force and Naval Personnel:
Luftwaffe pilots and U-boat commanders often carried the PPK as a backup weapon, particularly because of its compact size and ease of use in confined spaces.
Post-War Influence:
After WWII, many captured PPKs were taken as war trophies by Allied soldiers.
The design later influenced Cold War-era handguns, and the PPK became famous in pop culture as James Bond’s signature pistol.