The lesser known 1935-A and 1935-S French Semi-Auto Pistols.

[rambob]

Here are a couple of the lesser collected pistols of WWII. I have always enjoyed the more unusual pistols, off the normal beaten path. Since my theme was to collect the standard, substitute standard and reserve issued pistols of each major participant country of WWII, these pistols were perfect for France.

The top pistol is a French 1935A with a baked on, black enamel finish. Because of this finish, I read the nickname of this pistol was "The Painted Hussy". Some of the markings on the left hand side of the photo are a little hard to read in the photos and are SACM and the serial number is 2376A.

The other pistol is a 1935S and the only markings not clear are an M.A.C on the left hand of the slide. I am not exactly sure that this pistol is WWII era and would appreciate any info on either pistol, especially as far as date of manufacture.

FYI. These pistols were chambered for the .32 Long cartridge that was developed originally for the Pederson device for the M1903 Springfield rifle. FYI. In the one photo with holster is an unopened, original French box of ammunition dated 1953.

[Bill Grist]

I too like these pistols.. The 35A was also produced by the Germans in occupied France and Waffenamt marked....I have a Nickled 35S from Viet-nam....BILL