Help identifying flare gun and holster?

[Ssteve]

Hello all,
I just recently purchased numerous items from a WWII veteran. Some of it I really don't know much about. I was wonder if someone might be able to tell me if the below pictured holster is for a mauser? And maybe I little information on the flare gun.

The flare gun has all kinds of markings. On One side is the following FL24483, then towards the grip is written (EcKo) and below that looks like a little eagle and below the little eagle is the number (36). On the other side is the number (818). If I had more micro w/my camera I'd show some better pictures. Anyone have any idea of value on this? Also, if I were to sell this flare gun would it have to be mailed by someone with a Federal Firearms License, probably so the way things are these days.

The holster looks almost perfect. On the back is a tiny eagle standing on a swastika and below that is some numbers/letters that I can't make out followed by 44.

Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your time
Regards,
Steve

[Ssteve]

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[Ssteve]

Holster

[Ssteve]

Thanks for your help!!!

[JamesJ]

If the back of the holster doesn't say "P08" or "P38" on the back my guess would be an Astra 600 holster. Difficult to tell from pictures. If a pistol was stored in the holster for any length of time there should be an outline on the pistol impressed into the leather. Often the holster was used for something other than it was originally designed for however. I've seen P35 holsters brought back with P38's in them. Hope this helps. Jim

[Frentebro]

Nice flare gun. The double-barrelled versions are much less common.

Generally no FFL required to send or receive but check local laws (a couple models are available from surplus sources like Sportsmans Guide, International Military Antiques.) I don't know about a carry permit.

There was actually a rifled version (Kampfpistole) that could launch grenades:
http://www.inert-ord.net/ger03a/wkorp/index.html

[Matt Wilson]

Ssteve,

I would have guessed that flare pistols constructed of metal would have qualified as firearms, but so far I have been unable to find any documentation to support that notion. Of course, NY has its share of "funny" gun laws, so proceed w/caution. Best bet might be to call your local US Treasury office & quiz their BATF person. Ask for something in writing &/or a website where you can get a copy of the applicable reg. Be sure to get the name/number of whoever gives you the answer - it helps get their attention when they realize they will be held accountable for their response, so they don't blow you off w/a pat reply.

Best,
Matt

PS I was still typing while Dave was responding. One caveat - on IMA's site, they point out that all their firearms are dewats. This affects the FFL issue. I agree that it does not appear as though the FFL will be required, but better safe than sorry.

[Frentebro]

The Marstar site has one, identified as Luft-issue Mod. SLDA. $629 Canadian but original finish?

[JamesJ]

No federal permit required to buy or sell the flare gun. The two barrelled models like yours went to the Luftwaffe. The Navy had several exotic stainless steel designs those are very rare. Ones like yours pop up from time to time at shows. Do a Google search, I think there may be a flare gun collectors group out there. I do know at least one person who collects nothing but flare gun items.
Your flare gun I've seen priced in the $500 range. But I haven't seen one lately. The Navy Stainless steel guns are rarely seen and go for $1000 plus. I have a rifled flare gun. They have a "Z" etched on the side. Those are uncommon, but you can occassionally sneak up on one that the owner is unaware is a grenade launcher. They fired a prerifled funky looking round. They came with a detachable stock and detachable sight. Both of those accessories are rarer than the "Z" pistols.

[Ssteve]

Thank for all the replies! Can anyone tell who the maker was of this flare gun with the numbers I provided? Regardless, everyone has been really helpful and I appreciate your time.
Regards,
Steve

[Britch]

Under federal law flare guns are not a gun, but under some state laws, like NJ they are. Very nice piece!!