An analysis of Interarms PPK-PPK/S serial numbers & dates

[Pilotsteve]

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Thank you for the helpful contributions, gentlemen. I've updated the databases and when (if) we get a few more submissions I'll repost the charts.

RJK77, what a beauty you have there. I sent you a PM in regards to the fact that although we don't have the complete date, the year is useful considering it's a German made import.

Milspec, fantastic help sir. Your information is in the database and your contribution extremely helpful.

Keep 'em coming, boys!

-Pilotsteve

[jkwoka]

IA, PPK/s, .380, Blue, USA, Catalog # VAP 24401, Serial # 004734, no date on Test Target but purchased new 08/81, have original receipt.

[Pilotsteve]

Thank you for the contribution, JKwoka. I suspect your PPK/S may be a German import based on the serial number but can't be sure. Does it say "Made in W Germany" on the left side anywhere? Also, sadly the date of purchase does not correspond to the date of manufacture, but I (we) thank you for the effort nonetheless.

-Pilotsteve

[jkwoka]

Steve,

Thanks for the reply.
On the left side of the slide under the Walther banner is " MADE IN USA ".
Is it standard that the slide and reciever have matching serial numbers?
I sent an e-mail to S&W today asking them for help on date of manufacture or who to write to. Will let you know.

Regards,

John

[Pilotsteve]

Good luck, JkWoka. Smith & Wesson isn't likely to help you with your Interarms pistol. After all, it's not their product and I think they're jealous of them! I called them long ago trying to get information about my PPK and the guy I spoke to told me the last two digits of the Interarms serial numbers equated to the year of manufacture. If that were the case, I have a Stainless steel Interarms PPK, made by Ranger, that was manufactured in the US in 1948.

I'd be interested if they even contact you. And if they do, I can't wait to hear what the rep tells you. Maybe that yours was made in 1934!

-Pilotsteve

[sub-moa]

jkwoka:
Obviously not German (German PPK/s have an "S" suffix) and S&W can't help, some say they can't even help themselves ...

Your 004734 (no prefix), does indicate an Interarms, Made in USA (Ranger Mfg), Blue, .380acp PPK/s...

They hit the 0012K range in 1980 and the 0027K range in 1982, so one would imagine your 004734 is likely late 1979/early 1980 production...

[jkwoka]

Thanks gents, I'll keep you posted.
I guessed the not German when it's stamped Made in USA :^)

[sub-moa]

Yep, noticed the "USA" right off in your original...and complete post, also noticed apparently not everyone did. And though you expanded upon it in your subsequent post, I just couldn't help but provide a complete description...similar your original , even if the USA part was redundant ...

[Leighton]

Steve, Here's a couple more for you, both Ranger manufactured, both stainless steel, both PPK/s.
1. .32ACP SN W007080
2. .380ACP SN S126440

I have both original boxes minus the test targets.

[Iron Man]

What about the blue PPK/S 9MM Kurz models?