My French Made P-38

[Rifleman63]

Hello I just purchased a French made P-38 and I have some questions if someone can help. The serial number on the slide does not match the other serial number on the frame? Anyone know why? Also when there is no loaded clip in the chamber you can only slide the bar back and it locks open. You then have to push the release to get it back to normal. Ok here is the question, if you put a loaded clip in it and then slide the bar back is it supposed to slide back to normal position? I am unfamiliar with the P-38 and don't want to accidentally shoot myself. I am disabled to so don't want to take any chances. Hope someone can offer some info on this and thanks!

[sniper11]

Different serial numbers on the same weapon usually indicates that replacement parts have been swapped over from when originally made.

If I understand you correctly, when the weapon is cocked fully to the rear the working parts/top slide remain locked rearward ? This is unusual however I'm unfamiliar with the French P38 .The German p38 working parts will move forward once you let go of the slide-this is normal and shouldn't lock in the rear position unless you apply the release catch. When loaded with an empty magazine the working parts will lock in the rear position when cocked . WHEN there's rounds in the magazine and cocked working parts move forward and when doing so collects the top round from the magazine and pushes it into the chamber. ALWAYS ensure the muzzle is pointing in a SAFE DIRECTION loaded or unloaded and safety catch applied until you are in aiming at your target. Always check you unload when finished firing, remove the magazine and look into the chamber to ensure its clear of ammunition.
Troy

[scottr]

Sounds like the spring for the slide catch might be installed upside-down (a common mistake).

[Mauser888]

What is the code and date of your pistol? SVW 45 or 46 perhaps?