Drawn from some of the world's most prestigious collections, this comprehensive work is a visual and historical reference exploring the craftsmanship and technical progress of German pistol development during the 1914-1945 World War I, Weimar, and Third Reich years. Using specially commissioned colour photography, these ultra-rare and priceless side arms, many of which are shown for the first time, are displayed in stunning detail, highlighting the engravers' art, intricate designs, and ornamentation. Important weapons – from Luger, Walther, Mauser, and many others – belonging to aristocracy and heads of state have been selected to provide the reader with an appreciation of the gunsmith's artisanship. Rare prototypes illustrate key technical innovations, many of which remain prominent features in modern firearms today. Finally, rare pistols used for military trials are also included, marking the evolution of the pistol as an effective military weapon. AUTHOR: Hermann Hampe was born in Hannover, Germany, in 1961. He lives in Cannes and intends to pursue further research and publications in the historical development of the legendary Japanese Nihonto swords. Jean Varret was born in 1963 in the north of France, an area that was so deeply marked by the two World Wars. He lives and works in Cannes, and he has a deep interest in aviation and fine automobiles. 290 colour