Scarce Mauser BYF 44 "ac 43" Dual-Tone P.38 - FN Slide

Description

2/27/26 - This is one of the rarest and most fascinating variations of WWII P.38s, a Mauser byf 44 marked with an "ac 43" on the slide, a marking which would typically denote a 1943 Walther produced example. Jan Still's Axis Pistols (p.30) states that some P.38 slides were manufactured by FN in Belgium, and marked with the ac/43 or ac/44 code, using a notably larger font than Walther's ac 43 marking. Mauser had previously used FN small parts and barrels in their model K98ks, and knew FN could be relied upon for consistent quality control. Slides were shipped to both Mauser and Spreewerk, where they were assembled into complete pistols. It is estimated that about 4,000 P.38s were made with these FN ac-marked slides. This particular example is all matching, including frame, barrel, slide, and locking block. It features the proper large "ac 43" and the Mauser "E/WaA135" proof stamps on the frame, barrel and slide. This example has retained about 85% of its bluing. The slide shows visible discoloration and areas of cold blue touch-up, general high edge wear, a few signs of smoothing, and a couple spots of surface oxidation. The frame has minor thinning on the front grip strap, and a few areas where the phosphate is slightly darkening, which is typical. It comes with excellent grips, minor handling marks and scattered mild scuffing, and one proper U-marked, JVD magazine. The bore is shiny with strong rifling, but it is frosted in the grooves. Excellent mechanics, and De-cocker is functional.