Revolvers

WWII Military Revolvers

During World War II, revolvers served as the secondary weapons for officers, pilots, tank crews and resistance fighters. Although semi-automatic pistols became increasingly adopted, revolvers continued to be used because of their reliability and simplicity under harsh battlefield conditions. Each major nation involved in the war issued or manufactured revolvers for their armed forces, and many of these models are now highly collectible for their historical significance.

United States: Smith & Wesson Victory Model / Colt Commando

During WWII, the U.S. used two main revolvers: the Smith & Wesson Victory Model and the Colt Commando. These reliable double action revolvers chambered in.38 Special were issued mainly to Navy personnel, military police and aircrews. The Victory Model had a parkerized finish with smooth walnut grips while the Colt Commando was a streamlined wartime version of the Colt Official Police revolver.

United Kingdom: Webley Mk IV & Enfield No. 2 Mk I

The British military made extensive use of revolvers such as the Webley Mk IV (.38/200 caliber) and the Enfield No. 2 Mk I. These revolvers, known for their break top design and ease of reloading, were standard issue for officers and tank crews. The Webley’s rugged construction and stopping power made it a favorite among Commonwealth forces.

Germany: Reichsrevolver (Obsolete) & Captured Revolvers

Germany primarily used semi-automatics like the Luger P.08 and Walther P.38 but revolvers saw limited use, especially early in the war. Some WWI-era Reichsrevolvers were issued in rear-line or police roles. More commonly, German troops used captured revolvers from occupied territories—French MAS 1892s and Belgian Nagants—especially in auxiliary or partisan units.

Soviet Union: Nagant M1895

The Nagant M1895 revolver was a mainstay in the Soviet arsenal throughout the war. It was chambered in 7.62×38mmR, and it featured a unique gas-seal system that slightly boosted muzzle velocity by eliminating the cylinder gap. It was slower to reload than modern pistols, but it was durable, and it was widely distributed among Soviet officers, NCOs, and tank crews.

Japan: Type 26 Revolver

The Imperial Japanese Army used the Type 26 revolver, a 9mm double-action design dating back to 1893. It was considered outdated by WWII standards, but it continued to serve in rear-echelon and police roles because Japan had a limited production of newer sidearms. Due to its scarcity and distinctive design, it is a prized piece for collectors.

 Whether used in front-line combat or support roles, WWII revolvers are enduring symbols of wartime craftsmanship and utility. Its presence on both Allied and Axis sides speaks to the universal need for reliable sidearms in the chaos of global conflict.