SWC M8 AN-M8 37mm Pyrotechnic Flare Pistol — WWII U.S. Property Marked, 4-1/8 in Steel Barrel
This WWII-era SWC M8 (AN-M8) pyrotechnic flare pistol is a U.S. military-marked example with "U.S. PROPERTY" and "PISTOL PYROTECHNIC M8" rollmarks and the triangular maker code "M" over "S.W.C." Built with a steel 4-1/8 inch barrel on an aluminum-alloy frame, it features a compact, micro-sized profile and black checkered plastic grips. Twin top levers, muzzle lugs, and a top mounting shoe reflect its aircraft integration design, including compatibility with the Pyrotechnic Pistol Mount M1. No visible serial number was observed.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
What’s Included
- SWC M8 37mm pyrotechnic flare pistol
Clear U.S. military provenance is evidenced by the "U.S. PROPERTY" and "PISTOL PYROTECHNIC M8" markings, along with the triangular "M" over "S.W.C." maker code. These identifiers tie the piece to wartime production and the standardized AN-M8 pattern used by U.S. forces.
The pistol pairs a steel 4-1/8 inch smoothbore barrel with an aluminum-alloy frame, a configuration that reflects its military purpose and materials of the period. Black checkered plastic (Bakelite-type) grips complete the correct WWII-era furniture.
Operation is double-action only with an internal hammer. The break-open, single-shot design is straightforward, supported by twin top levers: the rear lever functions as the breech lock, while the forward lever serves the aircraft mount latch.
Purpose-built mounting features include muzzle lugs and a top mounting shoe for the Pyrotechnic Pistol Mount M1. This setup was intended for secure aircraft integration while enabling quick deployment of 37mm pyrotechnic signals.
Its micro size and U.S. manufacture align with the wartime requirement for compact, reliable signaling arms. No visible serial number was observed, consistent with examples where external numbering was not prominently marked.