Longevity in a handgun design is measured in years. A few classics have managed to last a few decades. But any gun that remains in production—and on dealer's shelves—for more than fifty years is a downright wonder. Clearly, there has to be a reason for handguns that last through time. So, why is the Walther PP and PPK series of guns still in production? First offered in 1929, the PP was quickly followed by the slightly smaller PPK in 1931. That's 80 years of almost continuous production (there was a gap after World War II). These guns were made in four calibers: .22 LR, .25 ACP, .32 ACP and the more popular .380 Auto. While none of these are fight-stopping wonder cartridges, the .380 has persisted in this role. And true enough, the unique PP/PPK lockwork was part of a great WWII service auto, the P38. It was that lockwork—the first commercially and militarily successful DA/SA trigger system—that distinguished the little Walthers as milestone guns to the point that some were even made by Smith & Wesson.
|
|
|
|
Comments
ADD YOUR COMMENT
Enter your comments below, they will appear within 24 hours
No comments yet, be the first to leave one below.