Description
Few revolvers capture the spirit of German precision craftsmanship quite like a Ratzeburg-era Korth, and this Combat Series 35 stands as a striking example of why these revolvers have become pillars within advanced collections.
Manufactured during the highly coveted Ratzeburg production period, this Combat Series 35 reflects the era when Willi Korth’s design philosophy was still deeply rooted in hand-fitted tolerances, meticulous machining, and performance without compromise. Every surface, edge, and mechanical interface demonstrates the obsessive attention to detail that defined Korth’s early revolvers and ultimately cemented their reputation among elite shooters and collectors alike.
This example is chambered in .357 Magnum and comes with its factory 9mm exchange cylinder, offering both versatility and mechanical intrigue. The dual-caliber configuration highlights Korth’s forward-thinking engineering, allowing the revolver to transition between calibers while maintaining the same exceptional lockup, timing, and balance that the Combat Series is known for.
Both cylinders are matched to the revolver, reinforcing its collector integrity and originality, an increasingly important factor as Ratzeburg Korth revolvers continue to appreciate in rarity and historical significance.
Visually, the revolver is nothing short of commanding. The deep, lustrous blue finish showcases Korth’s masterful polishing process, creating mirror-like reflections across the frame, barrel, and cylinder flutes. The finish contrasts beautifully against the finely shaped walnut combat grips, whose ergonomic contouring and precision checkering provide both aesthetic warmth and functional control.
The Combat Series 35 configuration is especially desirable for its balanced proportions, offering a duty-inspired profile while retaining the refinement expected from Korth’s workshop. Features such as the ventilated rib, precision-adjustable sights, and the signature Korth barrel profile further enhance both shootability and visual presence.
Mechanically, the revolver exhibits the hallmark traits that separate Korth from all contemporaries: an exceptionally smooth double-action pull, a glass-clean single-action break, and bank-vault cylinder lockup. The interchangeable cylinder system operates with the same precision fitment as the primary assembly, underscoring the hand-fitted nature of the platform.
Accompanied by its factory presentation case and documentation, this Combat Series 35 represents more than a revolver; it is a tangible artifact from one of the most respected revolver makers in modern firearms history.
For the advanced Korth collector, dual-caliber Ratzeburg revolvers with matching exchange cylinders occupy a particularly desirable niche, bridging mechanical innovation with Old World craftsmanship in a way few manufacturers have ever achieved.
