December 13-15, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/15/2022
1 of only approximately 70 "Baby" P.38 pistols fabricated by John Martz. This example, originally manufactured during World War II, was masterfully crafted by Martz from a standard configuration P.38 into a "Baby" P.38. The left side of the slide has been restamped by Martz, reading "P.38 AC/42" followed by the serial number, with the right side devoid of any firing and acceptance proofs. Left side of frame bears the serial number next to a faint "(Eagle) / 359" waffenamt, with the right side bearing Martz' trademark encircled "JM" and "20" stamps. The frame has been splendidly shortened at the grip, exhibiting no evidence of said shortening, aside from some discoloration from heating on the interior. Barrel has been shortened to 3 - 1/4" in length, and features a 1/4" tapered section from the barrel block to the front sight lug. Heel magazine catch has been removed, with the frame modified with the addition of a 1911 pattern magazine button release on the left side. Major metal components are polished in-the-white, while smaller components, including the takedown lever, trigger, slide stop, magazine button, and hammer, are strawed. Frame is mounted with 2-piece smooth walnut grips. This example is accompanied by a spare blued magazine, as well as a custom John Martz manufactured stand that retains the magazine as well as a letter from John Martz that reads "This custom Baby P.38 stand is a gift to you". CONDITION: Excellent, as professionally converted and modified, with metal components exhibiting a lustrous in-the-white polished finish, exhibiting some scattered spots of hardened grease overall. Mirror bore, exhibiting well defined lands and grooves throughout. Left grip panel exhibits a light external crack around the grip screw slot, as well as a crack stemming at the rear of the panel, appears to be from over tightening. Stand is excellent, with the metal surfaces exhibiting very light surface oxidation overall. An exceptional "Baby" P.38, showcasing the master craftsmanship of John Martz. MLW
Accessories
Stand, Spare magazine