+P ammunition in older weapons

[alpha0mega]

Hello there! I have a gorgeous Walther PPK that my grandpa brought home from the war (WW2, duh). It is in 95% condition and I have gone over it extremely thoroughly. It works and functions perfectly. It is chambered for 7.65 Browning (.32ACP). My question is, will the slide bang the **** out of the frame and be harmful to the gun if I were to use .32+P ammunition.

* Note: yes, I know +P .32 is kind of contradictory

Also, what kind of practical defense can be achieved with .32ACP. I figure it'll do the job.

 

[alpha0mega]

i should note, I am using the original spring. I have what I think (its not in front of me now) is an 18lb spring that I can install if necessary.

 

[Mad Magyar]

PPK's are built like the proverbial "brick @!*#House"...Most European loads are hotter than in the U.S. If you don't make a steady diet of the stuff, I see no harm, especially in that caliber

Also, what kind of practical defense can be achieved with .32ACP. I figure it'll do the job.

Sure, why not? If that's your preference: be accurate as Hell!

 

[Halo]

It could probably handle it, but you have to ask yourself if you really want to put the extra wear on it. Something like that has a lot of sentimental and historical value and if it were me I would fire it only occasionally and with the softest ammo that would cycle it.

 

[alpha0mega]

Thanks guys. I really dont intend on shooting the +P thru it at the range, just for carry. At the range i use dinky loads sold by a local gunshop (reloads). 12.50 for 50 rounds! cheap!

 

[Halo]

Are you sure you want to use it as a carry gun? It sounds like you have a war relic in near perfect condition, it would be a shame to see it develop holster wear and such.

 

[alpha0mega]

Halo, Youre right. Understand why I feel that way though; its far more comfortable than my Ruger SP101 as carry. It has a GREAT slim profile and I love the way it looks.

It is a german Officers model too. No importation BS or markings on it. Barrel appears to have NEVER been shot. It had been stored in his home in a chest in the air conditioned upstairs since it was brought home. before cleaning. there was literally not a SINGLE bit of ammo residue in the bore, rifling lands and grooves, or firing pin.

Its gorgeous and I love it. And i think it would be a nice carry piece... but you're right, it would be very hard on the finish (sweat, abrasion, etc).

I'll leave her home in the safe i suppose.
thanks for the input guys!

 

[Halo]

I think you are making the right choice! If you like the dimensions of the pistol, I recommend looking at a Bersa Thunder. It is very PPK-like and they retail brand new for around $250 or less.

 

[Mad Magyar]

Barrel appears to have NEVER been shot. It had been stored in his home in a chest in the air conditioned upstairs since it was brought home. before cleaning. there was literally not a SINGLE bit of ammo residue in the bore, rifling lands and grooves, or firing pin.

I got a better idea, just sell it to me so I can have a "twin" for my .380!