Walther P38 2

About this product

This is a used Walther P38-pattern pistol chambered in 9mm, built around the classic double-action/single-action service pistol design Walther originated decades ago and that influenced most modern DA/SA pistols that followed it. As a used firearm, condition and exact features can vary from unit to unit, so what you see in our inventory listing reflects this specific gun rather than a fresh factory sample. It's a pistol for shooters who want the historical DA/SA design in a currently functioning, shootable configuration rather than a display piece.

What is a P38-pattern pistol?

It's a double-action/single-action, exposed-hammer 9mm service pistol design, meaning the first shot can be fired with a long double-action trigger pull without manually cocking the hammer, and subsequent shots fire single-action after the slide cycles. The design pairs a visible external hammer with a decocking lever in most variants, letting the shooter safely lower the hammer on a loaded chamber. This pattern has been produced and reproduced across different eras and manufacturers, so exact features can vary by production run.

What is it used for?

Buyers pick up a used P38-pattern pistol for range shooting, collecting, and appreciation of the DA/SA service pistol design rather than as a primary concealed-carry gun in most cases — the exposed hammer and older ergonomics aren't what most shooters reach for compared to modern striker-fired pistols. It also has appeal for collectors interested in the lineage of DA/SA pistol design. Some buyers add it to a collection specifically to compare its handling against the modern DA/SA and striker-fired pistols it influenced.

How does it compare to a modern striker-fired 9mm?

A modern striker-fired pistol like a Glock or M&P has a consistent trigger pull shot to shot and no external hammer to manipulate. The P38-pattern design instead gives you a heavier first double-action pull followed by a lighter single-action pull on every shot after, along with a visible hammer and decocker — a different manual of arms that takes some dedicated practice if you're used to modern strikers.

What should I check before buying it used?

Have our counter staff walk you through the specific gun's function check, since used-firearm condition varies unit to unit — look at bore condition, slide-to-frame fit, and whether the decocker and safety mechanisms work smoothly. Magazine availability for older DA/SA patterns can be more limited than for current-production pistols, so confirm magazines are included or readily available before you commit. Ask about import markings or refinishing history too, since both can affect a used service pistol's condition and value.

Who is this not for?

If you want a modern carry gun with a consistent trigger and the largest possible holster and parts selection, a current-production striker-fired 9mm will serve you better day to day. This is a better fit for someone specifically interested in the DA/SA design or the historical pattern rather than someone shopping purely for a daily carry gun.

Does it work in California?

Used handgun sales in California still require confirming the specific model's status against the state's private-party and dealer transfer rules, along with the standard 10-day wait, DROS, and FSC at pickup — used handguns are not automatically exempt from roster requirements depending on the transaction type. Ask our counter staff to walk through this specific used gun's paperwork path; general rules are on our California gun laws page.