German Stützer Perfekt-Pistole Target Pistol .22 LR C&R 1905-1945
SOLD FOR: $1,004
WOA#: WY240318RU003
Make: Stützer, Germany
Model: Perfekt-Pistole
Serial Number: 155
Year of Manufacture: 1905-1945
Caliber: .22 LR
Action Type: Falling Block, Single Action, Single Shot, Double Set Triggers
Markings: The left side of the frame is marked “PERFEKT-PISTOLE / STÜTZER”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “155”. The right side of the frame and right side of the falling block both have crowned “B U” proofs.
Barrel Length: 13 3/8″ Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade integral to a ramped base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a fully adjustable u-notch leaf dovetailed to the top of the receiver.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is one piece checkered walnut with pronounced palm swell, thumb rest, hand rest, and ebony cap with sling ring. There is a checkered walnut forend with schnabel tip. There are no cracks or chips. There are a few minor compression marks and thin scratches but the checkering remains crisp throughout with defined peaks. Overall the grips rate in Fine condition for C&R.
Type of Finish: Case Colored, Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is some scattered erosion interrupting some of the rifling but most of the bore is generally free from any erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7.5/10 for C&R.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 90% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows only some minor operation wear. The case color is strong with faint muting. The octagonal barrel has light wear on the edges. The leading edges have minor thinning which is more pronounced at the muzzle. The rear sight has taken a patina with some rust. There is some frosting on the backstrap. The screw heads are sharp but slightly tooled. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition for C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions as intended. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Hilmar Stutzer, born in 1881 into a lineage rich in firearms craftsmanship, was a distinguished gunmaker and an ardent shooter from Zella-St. Blasii, Germany. Achieving his master gunmaker’s certification at the young age of 25, Stutzer embarked on a career marked by innovation and excellence, specializing in the creation of shotguns and target rifles. Drawing inspiration from the Udo Anschutz pistol design, Stutzer ventured into manufacturing his own version in the early 1900s, laying the groundwork for what would become his signature piece, the Perfekt Pistol. This firearm first came to prominence in print in 1923, although Stutzer had been branding his creations with the “Perfekt” moniker since the onset of World War I, signaling his commitment to precision and quality.
The legacy of Hilmar Stutzer was further cemented when his son Franz joined the family firm in 1939, continuing the tradition of fine gunmaking. However, the tumultuous times of World War II took their toll on the company, leading to its dissolution in 1945. Hilmar Stutzer’s life and contributions to the world of firearms came to an end in 1953. Despite the eventual closure of his company, Hilmar Stutzer’s name endures in the annals of firearms history, remembered for his “Perfekt” blend of craftsmanship, innovation, and a passion for shooting that defined an era of German gunmaking. The Perfekt Pistol remains a testament to Stutzer’s skill and vision, embodying the pinnacle of early 20th-century firearm design and manufacturing. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.