Walther P38 and P1 Interchangeably?

hermiem

December 02, 2017 20:38

I wanted to know if the P38 steel frame can replace the P1's aluminium one? Also, can the receiver parts be interchanged? I've been trying to find P38 steel lowers but haven't had much luck. Anybody know where I possibly could locate one?

TIAFYC

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  nmyers

  December 03, 2017 03:07

  Yes, you should be able to put a P1 slide on a P38 frame, & it will function well.
  
  Most small parts on the frame will interchange, but not all. Certainly not the hex nut in late P1 frames. Although we have no statistics, some early P1 frames cracked, due to poor metallurgy (&, possibly, more powerful European 9mm ammo). Walther fixed the problem by embedding a hardened steel hex nut in the frame of later P1's. That probably explains why you can buy all the P1 slides you could want for $25.
  
  All steel P38 frames were German wartime production, with all other parts made from steel. It's pretty uncommon for one of them to fail, so I wouldn't expect to see steel lowers offered for sale.
  
  Neal

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  hermiem

  December 04, 2017 07:18

  Neil,
  
  Thanks for the info. Do you have any idea where I can purchase a P38 lower?
  
  Mike
  
  quote:Originally posted by nmyers
  Yes, you should be able to put a P1 slide on a P38 frame, & it will function well.
  
  Most small parts on the frame will interchange, but not all. Certainly not the hex nut in late P1 frames. Although we have no statistics, some early P1 frames cracked, due to poor metallurgy (&, possibly, more powerful European 9mm ammo). Walther fixed the problem by embedding a hardened steel hex nut in the frame of later P1's. That probably explains why you can buy all the P1 slides you could want for $25.
  
  All steel P38 frames were German wartime production, with all other parts made from steel. It's pretty uncommon for one of them to fail, so I wouldn't expect to see steel lowers offered for sale.
  
  Neal

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