full auto P38

gambler

My friend bought an old P38 from our local gunshop. We took it out to see how well it shot. I loaded the magazine and released the slide. I hadnt touched the trigger but the weapon fired all rounds (Full Auto) in the magazine immediatley after going into battery. I know the weapon wasnt designed to do this very scary thing. Anyone have any ideas what may have happened? He loaded an empty casing with a live primer and released the slide again but it didnt fire. He applied the safety and the hammer fell, firing the primer in the case. I am kinda lost here. Watta ya think just a worn out wall hanger now?

rufe-snow

The first occurrence when it went full-auto. When the slide was released with out finger on trigger, seems to point at the firing pin sticking. Or malfunction in hammer drop safety mechanism. Personally I would take the pistol back to the local gunshop, as this is a very dangerous liability/safety problem that they should be held responsible for.

If this isn't feasible, use the disassembly instructions at this web-site,

http://www.marstar.ca/AssemblyWalther.htm

to remove the sheet metal cover. Inspect the internal components associated with the firing pin and hammer drop safety for breakage and cleanlyness. If the internal parts are broken or missing they can be replaced. Many on-line parts suppliers carry replacement parts for P 38's.

p3skyking

Sometimes the firing pin breaks, sometimes the hammer notches wear. It's not an uncommon occurance with P.38's
The hammer is SUPPOSED to fall when you apply the safety but it's not supposed to fire a cartridge. Therefore I'm thinking the problem is the firing pin and cartridge indicator being broken. This is something better left to the shop to fix for you.

jimkane

I bet that was a trip for ya. [:D][8D]

matwor

Glad noone was hurt or killed. Just remember boys and girls this is why we always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

Let us know what the gunshop tells you.

king999

this is why i use this technique when first firing a new semi-auto. load only TWO rounds. when you pull the trigger there are three possible responses. first: nothing happens (probably weak or broken FP or spring) second: BOTH rounds fired (either stuck FP or worn sear;; somebvody was trying to improve trigger pull) third: only one fires (so far so good, you may now procede!)
Good luck
Morty

gambler

Thanks guys. You wont believe this but I live in so. Cal. We have several gun dealers in my area but not a gunsmith within 50 miles. The states liability laws and commercial storage laws are claimed to be the culprit according to some shop owners that went out of business. Anyway thanks for all the info. You guys are best

jimkane

you fired a gun full auto (accidentally) in CA and you haven't disappeared into the Gulag yet?

fishkiller41

Pin stuck...

leeblackman

Could be a shear or hammer catch is broke or improperly installed.

Here's a diagram of parts from numrich that may assist you if you want to try to repair it yourself.
http://www.e-gunparts.com/productschem.asp?chrMasterModel=2100zP38