French Model 1935

[andrewdl007]

I like somewhat obscure guns and lately have really been getting into French military rifles and pistols. I wondered if anyone had experience with the 1935A or 1935S pistol. I know ammo is pretty impossible to come by. Any pictures you have is greatly appreciated.
Picture isn't mine but I included for those who don't know the two pistols.

Thanks!

 

[jonnyc]

I loved my 1935A, a beautiful and elegant pistol. I eventually got sick of bad, unbelievably expensive, or unobtainable ammo and sold it.
I want to be able to shoot all my guns, so it had to go.

 

[bannockburn]

andrewl007

No experience with French military handguns but I have had an interest in them (especially the Mle. 1892 revolver), over the years.

If you look closely you can spot an Mle. 1935A used by one of the mercenaries in the movie "The Dogs of War".

 

[Tallball]

I had a 1935s. I finally traded it towards something else, due to the ammo being unavailable. I was told an in-law brought it back from WWII, but my friend at the LGS thought it was produced post-war. It seemed well-made. Fit and finish were very good. I think it would have been fun to shoot.

 

[Stumper]

I handled on once. It seemed like a well made pistol.

 

[whatnickname]

These were well made pistols and are a good value. The problem is obtaining the ammunition as others have pointed out. A good many of the surplus WWII pistols are in excellent shape due to never having been fired and only dropped once!

 

[gpb]

Here is a link to a "Forgotten Weapons" episode where ammunition for a French 1935 pistol is discussed.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOR_kdYEcz8