I didn't even know about these until recently when Blicero bid on one. Trying to be a smart buyer, I did alot of research and waited for the right gun to pop up. The one I went after and won the bid on is actually somewhat rare when it comes to these critters. This is one of est 5,000 guns in this configuration having (Pistole M37 Kal 7.65mm) on the slide vs the later models stating (P.mod 37 Kal 7.65mm).
Here are the variations and numbers of each produced. Highlighted is the version I bought.
The German government negotiated a contract for 50,000 7.65mm Auto Frommer 37M pistols with pro-Axis Hungary in 1941. These were destined largely for the Luftwaffe.
Variants:
- 1st Variant. Except for the change of caliber to 7.65, the first consignments were identical to the 37M. Legend: 'FÉMÁRU FEGYVER ÉS GÉPGYÁR RT 37M'. Est. 1000 made.
- 2nd Variant. The Luftwaffe demanded a manual thumb safety catch, which was added to the left rear of the frame. New legend: 'Pistole M.37, Cal. 7,65mm', manufacturing code 'jhv 41' and German WaffenAmt 'WaA56' acceptance stamps were added. Est. 1000 made.
- 3rd Variant. New legend: 'Pistole M.37, Kal. 7,65mm'. The spelling 'Cal' was changed to 'Kal'. The 'jhv 41' and 'WaA56' markings are present. Est. 5000 made.- 4th Variant. New legend: 'P. Mod.37 Kal. 7,65.' The 'jhv 41' and 'WaA56' markings are present. Est. 43000 made to complete the 1st contract of 50,000 pistols.
- 5th Variant. Second contract, 1943. Same legend: 'P. Mod.37 Kal. 7,65.' The new code was 'jhv 43' and the WaffenAmt was 'WaA173'. Est. 35,000 made to complete the 2nd contract.
From what I understand, all the original holsters are specifically Luftwaffe marked lending little doubt as to who received these pistols. I dont have it in-hand yet, but thought I would share it using the sellers outstanding pictures for now.