Original German WWII Rare Late War “Crisis Solution” Zinc Model LP 34 Signal Flare Pistol by Walther

Original item: Only One Available. This is a wonderful example of the classic German Wehrmacht LP-34 signal flare pistol, which was designed in 1934. This late-war Leuchtpistole 34 has an all-Zinc frame, which was done from 1943 until the end of the war. The zinc edition was a "crisis solution", as the material did not have the same qualities as Duralumin. The weight again increases to approximately the same as the steel version. In addition, zinc is much more susceptible to corrosion and cracking. Not Available for Export.

This example bears original maker mark Waffenfabrik Walther, Zella-Mehlis (Thür) over the famous WALTHER banner over the serial number, 57292L. This company, based in the Thüringenn (Thuringia) region of Germany, needs no introduction. They developed this design of this flare pistol, making several versions of it. They also designed numerous famous pistols, including the PP/PPK line, and the P-38 9mm pistol that replaced the P-08 Luger. The company still exists to this day. This example is not dated, correct for a late-war Zinc example.

It is nicely Waffenamt marked on the right side of the frame and barrel with inspector number 359, along with various other inspection and proof marks. It also has the interesting Eagle over a "Tree inside Inverted Heart" stamping, which is apparently for Thuringia, the "Green Heart" of Germany. The shortened serial number 5729 can be found on the underside of the barrel.

The pistol has fluted wooden grips. The last change to the flare gun comes mid to late in 1943 when the grip plates on the steel edition are again manufactured in wood. This was probably a result of raw material for Bakelite production being scarce. The new version made of wood is simplified, with horizontal stripes unlike the early edition with checkering. These grip plates also occur on some of the zinc version flare guns from 1943, so the access to Bakelite must have been on and off that year.

This is a completely original WWII German manufacture in great slightly-used condition. This is the first Zinc example we’ve ever offered. It still has the original lanyard ring, which were often lost. The threaded hole allowed the pistol to be mounted to a device that allowed remote firing from a nearby tree or fence, sometimes with a trip wire.

A fantastic late-war flare pistol, ready for further research and display.