1942 Pistol, Pyrotechnic M8 (37mm) Flare Gun

Description

1942 Pistol, Pyrotechnic, M8 (also known as the AN-M8) is a standard-issue 37mm flare gun used by the United States military during World War II. It was primarily utilized for signaling and distress calls, particularly by aircrews.

National Air and Space Museum

+2

Key Features & Design

•    Caliber: It fires 37mm (1.5-inch)diameter flares or signal cartridges.

•    Aircraft Integration: The barrel features distinct lugs (studs) designed to lock into an M1 aircraft mount. This allowed pilots or crew to fire signals through the side of an aircraft without opening a window or door.

•    Construction: It is a single-shot, break-action pistol typically featuring a short steel barrel and black polymer (Bakelite) grips.

•    Markings: Original units are often stamped with “U.S. Property Pistol Pyrotechnic M8” along with the manufacturer’s initials and a production year (e.g., 1942 or 1943).

Common Manufacturers

During the war, several companies produced the M8 under contract for the U.S. government, including:

•    Eureka Vacuum Cleaner Co. (CEVC)

•    McInerney Spring & Wire Co. (MSWC)

This particular flare pistol is in As Found Condition, opens / closes, cocks, fires all works as should.

Some pitting, paint missing, small chips on the right grip top part

of the Bakelite grip, left grip has a small gouge on the bottom part of the grip.

Nice starter flare pistol for the new collector, great shape for being 84-yrs old.  Price Reflected.

2lbs

$225

1-available