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MARS Slide - German (?) Wording

5509 Views 6 Replies 3 Participants Last post by  Jan, 
G
I have a MARS 6.35mm pistol that has: "Automat. Pistole MARS" (German?) wording on the slide - like a DUO. I only have one reference that shows a MARS 6.35mm pistol, Whittington's "German Pistols and Holsters (Vol I)”. The slide on the pistol in the book has completely different wording (Czech?). I was hoping I could find someone with a book on Czech Pistols (or a more knowledgeable collector) who might be able to provide more information.

I'm guessing it was manufactured in 1937 from the "*37" marking. It has no commercial firm markings or German (E/N) proofs. I'd appreciate any information you could provide. The pistol has a weird plumb/red color but the seller assures me it hasn’t been refinished. I've attached a photo below. Thanks. Bob T.

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O
It is a Czech pistol...See ZHUK #1601. Made before the DUO 6,35mm.

Orv
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G
Oh!...It's a Czech</u> pistol - well, that pretty much covers it I guess. Could you give me a hint on ZHUK #1601</u> - I have absolutely no idea what this means. Thanks, Orv

Also, would anyone know why mine has completely different slide wording than the one pictured in the "MARS E/N" posting on this thread? This is the only MARS I've seen with these slide markings - OK it's also the only MARS I've ever seen. Finally, does anyone know where I can find an original magazine for the little guy?

I really got some great information from the earlier "MARS E/N" post - especially the proofhouse numbering and pistol date - I didn't know this before. Thanks folks. Bob T.
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Olefogey
Bob,
Orv is talking about "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Handguns, pistols and revolvers of the world, 1870 to the present", by A.B. Zhuk. This is a well illustrated book originally written in Russian and translated to English.

Dave
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J
Yes, it is a Czech pistol. Made by Posumavska Zbrojovka, Kohout & spol, Kdyne (Sumava mountain Armory, Kohout & comp. Kdyne) located in southwest Bohemia.
Kohout´s predecessor was Antonin Vilimec in Kdyne and the MARS 6,35 is a little bit simplified SLAVIA pistol with another marking.

The Kohout´s company was in bussiness 1932 -1947. The plum colored finish is undoubtedly original.



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SN 389 from my collection, proofed 1938. Note the same plum color.
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G
Thanks for the information. Does anyone know where I might be able to find an original magazine or spare grips for a MARS pistol?
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J
Originals are very hard to find here in Czech republic.

For copy try Triple K www.triplek.com in San Diego, California.
Black plastic grips stock # 1906
magazine stock # 898
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