Why did the Walther P 38 replace the Luger PO8?

The Walther P 38 was adopted by the German Wehrmacht in 1938 as a replacement for the Luger PO8, which had been the standard sidearm since 1908. There were several reasons for this change.

First, the P 38 was more economical to produce, with a simpler design requiring fewer parts and less machining. This made it more affordable for the German government to equip its soldiers.

Second, the P 38 was more reliable in harsh conditions than the Luger. The Luger's toggle-lock mechanism was prone to jamming, while the P 38's double-action trigger system was more robust and less likely to fail.

Third, the P 38 had a lower profile than the Luger, making it easier to conceal and carry. This was an important consideration for infantry soldiers, who needed to be able to draw their weapons quickly and easily in combat.

Finally, the P 38 had a larger magazine capacity than the Luger, with 8 rounds compared to 6. This gave soldiers more firepower in a single package, which could be crucial in a life-or-death situation.

Overall, the Walther P 38 was a more modern and effective sidearm than the Luger PO8, and it quickly became the standard issue weapon for German soldiers during World War II.

  1. When was the Walther P 38 adopted by the German Wehrmacht?
    • In 1938
  2. Why was the P 38 more economical to produce than the Luger?
    • It had a simpler design with fewer parts and less machining.
  3. Which mechanism of the Luger was prone to jamming?
    • The toggle-lock mechanism.
  4. How many rounds did the magazine of the P 38 hold?
    • 8
  5. What type of trigger system did the P 38 have?
    • Double-action trigger system
  • Walther P 38 Airsoft Pistol
  • Luger PO8 Airsoft Pistol
  • WWII German Military Collectible Set
  • Nazi Memorabilia Display Case
  • Military History Books on WWII German Weapons

Pre:What is the pronunciation of genre
Next:Why arent Crumbl cookies that good

^