Rare Menz P&B Model III

Description

3/18/24 - This is a nice example of a rare Menz P&B Model III from the 1930's. On 12 April 1928 a new law was promulgated in Germany that required individuals to obtain a permit to buy a gun, and also a license to carry a gun. The same law also established a legal framework for firearms manufacture. Due to these new restrictions on purchase and ownership of guns, gunmakers began to target sales somewhat more toward police and military than they had previously. This was certainly Walther’s goal when they named their new double-action gun the Polizei Pistole (PP) in 1929. (I should note, however, that prototypes for the PP began to appear as early as 1925.) A shorter version of the PP, the PPK, appeared in 1931. The success of both these guns were noted by Walther’s competitors. The P&B Model III was Menz's answer to the market, essentially a copy of the Walther PPK. This one is matching and "Crown N" proofed. Its finish rates roughly 60% with obvious finish loss and brown patina throughout. Some spotty oxidation on the left side of the slide. Fitted with period-correct "AM" monogram grips and comes with one proper magazine. Excellent bore. NOTE: The safety lever is missing on this example.