Histoire du Walther PP Episode 1

The Walther PP (Polizei Pistole) is a double-action, recoil-loading, semi-automatic pistol. It entered production in 1929 by the Carl Walther GmbH arms factory. The majority of these pistols were chambered in 7.65mm Browning. Some were also specifically adapted for 9mm Short and 6.35mm. This pistol quickly gained popularity with European police forces. As early as 1931, a compact version called the Walther PPK (Polizeipistole Kriminal) was developed, featuring a steel frame, although some commercial models were made of Duralumin. During World War II, both models were used by the German police, the Luftwaffe, and some Nazi Party officials. The weapon was normally carried in a leather holster, but the compact PPK (155 mm x 100 mm, weighing 590 g unloaded) could be discreetly carried in a jacket or trouser pocket. Adolf Hitler is said to have committed suicide with his PPK. This weapon, in its PPK version, was immortalized by the character of James Bond, appearing in the film series from Dr. No to Tomorrow Never Dies, after which the character used the Walther P99 pistol. However, the Walther PPK reappeared in the Quantum of Solace, Skyfall, and Spectre films. In the television series Inspector Derrick, Inspector Harry Klein, Derrick's assistant, is equipped with a PPK before replacing it in later seasons with a Smith & Wesson Chiefs Special revolver (.38 caliber).