AC43 Walther P38

Hello, recently I was offered this AC43 code Walther P38. The guy wants 600 plus shipping for it which I’m thinking is fair, but I’d like some other opinions. All numbers match besides the magazine, and the finish overall looks very nice. Almost too nice. Does this look refinished? I want to say it looks fine, but I’m not expert. Also, are red Bakelite grips correct for an AC43? Seen examples with both red and black so I wasn’t sure. Thanks for the help in advance.

Definitely not original finish. Has the wrong grips as well. $600 is probably a proper price for what it is and ok if you are not looking for a collector piece.

Concur - a refinish but if you’re looking for a shooter it’s a fair shake.

A definite tell for all Walther and Mauser P38's is the locking block, and especially the locking block pin. Both of those will be in the white, and although the locking block can easily be cleaned up, the pin cannot. This has all the external hallmarks of a refinished pistol. The grips are made by Posselt and were made for Spreewerk pistols. Agree that $600 is fair if the bore is excellent.

Gringo said:

A definite tell for all Walther and Mauser P38's is the locking block, and especially the locking block pin. Both of those will be in the white, and although the locking block can easily be cleaned up, the pin cannot. This has all the external hallmarks of a refinished pistol. The grips are made by Posselt and were made for Spreewerk pistols. Agree that $600 is fair if the bore is excellent.

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How can ya tell the grips were made by Posselt? I don't see any WaA marking on them. (Figured that would be on the inside of the grip panels)

Only the very early Walther (and some by AEG) were stamped with the E/359. The very, very early ones were serial numbered. Posselt only has 5 lines interrupted around the grip screw.



There are plenty of fakes out there, but I think your's are legit. Post a clear pic of the inside and I'll tell you for sure...