Walther PPK: Sidearm of The German Railway Detectives- the Reichsbahn Fahndungs Dienst (RBFD)*

[Poloberst]

Walther PPKs with grip strap markings indicating property of various Reichsbahn Directorates (Direktion) are found in collections. As the PPK was designed for concealed carry by detectives in police service, it was only natural that the pistol be selected for use by the German Railway Detectives- the Reichsbahn Fahndungs Dienst (RBFD)* The RBFD was created in 1928 along with the Reichs Bahnpolizei as the two police branches of the nationalized German railroads. The Bahnpolizei was of course the uniformed police force charged with maintaining law and order on railroad property and trains. The RBFD was charged with the investigation and elimination of theft and white collar crime against the Reichsbahn.

This example of an issue PPK is marked RBD Münster (Westfl.) indicating service with an agent of the Reichsbahn Direktion Münster in Westfalia. In the photo, it is accompanied by a suitable Akah marked "Reichsbank" model holster sold concealed carry in Germany by detectives and the necessary Dienstmark of the RBFD.
*Fahndung is a term of varying interpretation. Most interpretations of the Reichsbahn service are a criminal investigation service. But the SHAEF manual discusses the Fahndung as a search for wanted persons.

[Erich S]

Thanks Joe for posting this interesting PPK and it's not one that I've seen before. The many different variations of PPKs/PPs are numerous considering the short time that the TR existed.

[Tim030]

Very interesting pistol. I also have never seen one. Wonderful rig for a collection.

Tim

[MAP]

Great example. Thanks for sharing this beautiful rig

[Greenhorn]

Fantastic set! I love these pistols and owned one for many years, a modern one. They shoot well and look great. Your example is like an “ultimate” one to own, being a TR collectible.

Green

[TiredThomas]

Wow! Incredible rig. The holster is amazing, im a sucker for a good holster or case.