Made in August 1943 and marked with the cyq code, this P.38 is a 9mm semi-automatic with a 5-inch round barrel and serial number 6797F. The serial numbers match. The metal has been refinished in blue and about 98 percent of that refinish remains. Grips are in good condition with light wear.

Mechanically the action is smooth and functions correctly, and the bore is rated good with strong rifling and light frosting in the grooves. For a Utah owner that makes it a wartime piece that can still be shot rather than a safe queen; the refinished metal is worth knowing about if originality is your priority. Buying it goes like any handgun in the state: photo identification and Form 4473 at your dealer, then the point-of-contact background check through the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification, with no permit to purchase or registration required.

Key features

• 9mm, 5-inch round barrel, serial 6797F
• cyq code, made August 1943
• Matching serial numbers
• 98 percent refinished blue remaining
• Smooth action, good bore with strong rifling

Pickup is at the Utah FFL dealer you choose at checkout, after Form 4473 and the state background check.