'Unusual' JP Sauer 38H pistol.

[Anzac15]

Picked this up today at the local fun show. I have always admired the 38H pistol, and when I saw this one, well, price was right and I had to have it. Two things immediately grabbed my attention about it. First, aside from the standard JP Sauer and Patent marks, there are NO acceptance markings of any kind on this pistol. No eagles, nothing. Nada. Second, the serial number is on the LEFT of the slide as opposed to the RIGHT. Have never seen that before. Pistol is late war, Im assuming, and may have been a police sidearm, as the holster matches that type from what Ive researched. Holster has no markings whatsoever either. Bottom of both mags and bottom of one of the grips have a 'V' scratched into them. Would like to hear some thoughts on this one, as Ive never seen a 38H with these characteristics. Check out the pics!

Information

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[Anzac15]

After a bit of research, I believe this to be one of the so called 'GI assembled' pistols. What's the word on these? Some claim these are somewhat of a collector piece, some say these are just shooters. Whatcha think?

[jmoore]

I've never had a Sauer 38H, but would like to try one out sooner or later. Mauser HScs are bad painful and bloody to shoot due to hammer pinch. Walthers aren't much better. At least they don't draw blood. The previous generations of .32s seem much better, even though they don't have the "modern" features. Maybe the Sauer is an exception?

[Anzac15]

I fired a mag today, and I have to say, it's a total pleasure to shoot. Feels great in the hand, and a natural pointer. Great piece.

[Anzac15]

This is apparently without doubt one the so called 'GI assembled' or 'Type 5' pistols. Last three numbers under the slide do not match the last three on the frame. Serial number on the frame falls under what is generally considered to be pistols built under the occupation. Supposedly these are rare. Anyone out there have one of these or have some info on the rarity of this variation? If its something pretty collectible, it isn't going to be fired again.

[browningautorifle]

With mismatched numbers, it sounds like a total put together. I doubt there's any harm in shooting it.

[jmoore]

Looked at a "GI built" Walther PP not long ago. No proofs, etc., but matching numbers. A little too pricey for me, though. Even so, it didn't last long!

[Anzac15]

I knew nothing about 'GI assembled' pistols when I bought this. It got my attention because of no marks, unmarked police style holster, and both late war style mags. Oh yeah, and the serial number on the left side of the slide. I have this affliction that causes me to buy unusual military firearms. I'll probably never recover from it.

[WarPig1976]

I have this affliction that causes me to buy unusual military firearms. I'll probably never recover from it.

No man EVER said, "I shoulda bought a smaller safe."...

[browningautorifle]

I'll probably never recover from it.

I wouldn't worry about it. You can blame us if need be...