Synopsis:

Scarce Finnish Lathi military pistol, a late Series III delivered during the spring of 1944, subsequently fitted with a later slide, complete with limited production aftermarket shoulder stock, nearly indistinguishable from an original, only a small number fabricated many years ago.

Description:

Scarce Finnish Lahti military pistol with stock lug, often referred to as a late Series III, approx. 2,000 in the S# range of 3700-5800 all delivered to the Finnish military during the Spring of 1944. This pistol has a drift adj. front sight mounted on a serrated ramp and the usual "U" notch rear sight. The top of the slide, no loaded indicator, is marked "VALMET/ L-35", as consistent with a factory replacement slide. The left side of the frame and bolt are marked with the matching S# "4978". Fitted with the brown plastic grips, each panel molded with the "VKT" logo surrounded by a shallow checkered and bordered field. Blued magazine is from a Swedish Lahti marked "BJORN" on the floorplate. Complete with a reproduction shoulder stock, "SA" marked on the lid, that many collectors might confuse with an original. The lug lockup is via a rotating lever with multiple detents. A sheet metal magazine retainer is mounted to the spine of the stock and contains another Swedish Lahti mag. There is no cleaning rod nor is there a takedown tool.

Condition:

Approximately 95% original blue, the bbl. extension a factory replacement as previously mentioned. Comparable condition grips. Bright bore, lightly oxidized grooves, with easily discernible rifling. Correct manual mechanics. Stock is near new with just a few minor handling marks, locking tightly to the pistol with no wobble. Pistol insertion into stock is tight, lid closing properly. A very attractive and striking ensemble seldom offered for sale.