Is it possible to convert a Manurhin Walther PP .32acp to .380?

[outerlimit]

I know the barrel is different in the Walther PPK .380's. I was wondering if there is a barrel I could install in a Manurhin PP model that would convert it to .380? I don't know if the extractor/ejector setup would work. Mags would be an issue as well. I have seen them on Gunbroker, but I've never seen a Manurhin .380 before.

From what I understand the .32acp is the most common model. The .22lr version is more rare. I'm not sure if that many .380's were ever imported, but I saw one on Gunsamerica just now. It looks like the barrel is (possibly) shorter than the .32acp version, but I'm not sure.

 

[Billy Shears]

I probably ought to be possible, but why would you? By the time you buy the necessary parts and have a gunsmith install them, you'll have spent as much as you would spend on a .380 PP if you look around the used gun market for a reasonably priced one.

 

[outerlimit]

I just read the barrel is pinned to the frame, I forgot about that.

Reason I'm considering this is because I'm thinking about buying one back that I used to own years ago.

 

[mainmech48]

I'd agree with Billy. It no doubt could be done, but the total cost would be more than a nice PP or PPKs and likely close to what a brand-new stainless S&W PPK would run.

FWIW, the Turkish Kirakale-made PP's were .380s. IIRC, they were produced under license from Walther for the Turkish military and for police issue. They were imported both as surplus and as new production for several years, and can be had in very nice shape for about $275-300 at shows locally.

 

[lechiffre]

no not possible.

even if you switched the barrels the .380 would not fit the .32 breech face. then the .380 magazine would not fit into the .32 frame

 

[mainmech48]

Yes, it is possible; it's just not simple or inexpensive.

The thing that makes it so expensive is the amount of skilled labor involved. A competent machinist/gunsmith can make all of the necessary modifications to a slide and frame, but when you factor in set-up time, machine time and any tool costs along with an hourly rate for the labor commensurate with the skills involved it certainly wouldn't be cost-effective in any way, shape or form.