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The Korth Combat, also known as the Korth .357 Magnum, is a revolver produced by Korth GmbH, a German gun manufacturer. Although being seen as an excessively expensive gun (generally priced at over USD 1,000), the Korth Combat is considered a highly desirable gun by many.

Design Development[]

Willi Korth, having designed his own action for revolvers in the 1950's, began manufacturing revolvers in 1965, with the Korth Combat being the result of this.

Using the traditional solid frame with swing-out cylinder, the Korth Combat is seen as being similar to the Colt Python. However, there are several significant differences between the two. Firstly, the barrel is manufactured as a separate component. The barrel is covered with a steel jacket and then screwed into the frame. The extractor rod is also in the steel jacket. A barrel nut secures the entire assembly on the muzzle.

Unlike the Python, the cylinder crane of the Korth Combat is released by a serrated catch next to the hammer. The cylinder can be slid from the crane by pressing a spring latch while the gas leak is negligible, due to the fact that the cylinder face and barrel are fitted with a minimal distance between them. Finally the firing pin is made as a separate component, mounted within the frame. The safety (linked directly to the trigger) prevents the hammer striking the pin unless the trigger is pulled. Otherwise the Korth Combat is double-action, like the Python, and can also be shot in single-action. The Korth Combat is typically finished to a very high standard, with the metalwork well blued and grips made from high-grade walnut. Chromium plating covers the hammer, trigger and barrel lock nut.

Ammunition[]

The Korth Combat utilises the .357 magnum cartridge, shot from a six-shot, swing-out, cylinder.

Usage[]

Being so greatly coveted the Korth Combat demands the high asking price of over $1000. The semi-customizable revolver has a debated reputation, with many choosing to use cheaper Colt or Smith & Wesson alternatives.

In terms of military use the, Korth Combat has not seen any military use, despite what the name (and intention of Korth) suggests.

Ian V. Hogg, British Military Serviceman and renowned author on Firearms wrote:

ā€œ (The .357 Magnum) is on a par with other high quality revolvers; the finish, inside and out is excellent, the design is good; however i cannot honestly see where the high price is justified in any concrete manner. ā€

–Ian V. Hogg, Modern Small Arms


This handmade revolver demands constant maintenance, particularly around the cylinder/barrel gap. However the handmade method of manufacture allows a significant amount of customization and the relative bulk of the design allows for more powerful cartridges to be used.

Resources[]

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