German WWII HASAG Leuchtpistole 42 26.5 mm Single-Shot Flare Pistol
Produced between 1943 and 1945 by Waffenfabrik Hugo Schneider AG, the Leuchtpistole 42 is a wartime economy flare gun made entirely from stamped mild steel with a galvanized finish. This example, bearing the early concentric-ring HASAG logo and a low four-digit serial number, retains its original ribbed red-brown Bakelite grips and integral D-ring lanyard loop. Designed for airborne and armored crews, it is also capable of launching specialized German rifle-grenade cartridges such as the Panzerwurfkörper 42.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair – shows extensive signs of prior use and handling. Firearm is functional with widespread rust and pitting across exterior surfaces.
Bore Condition: Fair – generally clean with some residue, smudges, and slight corrosion.
What’s Included
- HASAG Leuchtpistole 42 flare pistol (serial number partially redacted)
The Leuchtpistole 42 was Germany’s answer to material shortages late in World War II, employing stamped construction and a light grey galvanized coating to save time and resources. Despite its simplified build, it remained robust in the field and could fire standard 26.5 mm signal flares as well as specialized anti-armor rifle-grenade cartridges.
This full-size, single-action, top-break design features an external hammer and a smooth-bore six-inch barrel. The rudimentary shallow U-notch rear sight is typical of the model, emphasizing rapid employment over precision.
Ribbed red-brown Bakelite grip panels provide a secure hold even when wearing gloves, while the integral D-ring lanyard loop allows the pistol to be tethered—an important feature for paratroopers and tank crews operating in confined or turbulent environments.
The low serial number (2693) and clear HASAG concentric-ring logo mark this as an early production specimen, adding collector interest to an already historically significant sidearm.