| Kampfpistole | |
|---|---|
| Type | Flare gun |
| Place of origin |  Nazi Germany |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1939-1945 |
| Used by | Germany |
| Production history | |
| Designer | Walther |
| Manufacturer | Walther Erma |
| Specifications | |
| Mass | 730 g (1 lb 10 oz) |
| Length | 155 mm (6.1 in)[1] |
| Cartridge | Flare |
| Caliber | 26.6 mm (1.05 in) |
| Action | Break action |
| Feed system | Single shot[1] |
The Kampfpistoleorflare gun in English was introduced into German service during 1939 and served throughout World War II.
The Kampfpistole was a single shot, break action, flare gun designed and produced by Walther that was a variant of the earlier Leuchtpistole 34. Externally both the Kampfpistole and the Leuchtpistole 34 were nearly identical. The difference between the two models was the Kampfpistole had a rifled barrel while the Leuchtpistole 34 was a smoothbore gun. The Kampfpistole could be identified by a Z engraved on the barrel of the gun. The Kampfpistole's frame was machined from duralumin, the barrel was machined from steel, was blued to stop corrosion, and had bakelite pistol grips.
The primary roles for the Kampfpistole were signaling, illumination, target marking, or concealment with a smoke grenade. Later during World War II, explosive rounds were developed to give German troops a small and lightweight grenade launcher for engaging targets from close range which could not be engaged satisfactorily by infantry weapons or artillery without endangering friendly troops.[2]
Available projectiles included:
