*SOLD* 1973 Walther OSP .22 S 4.5" *DESIGNED FOR OLYMPIC 25m RAPID FIRE EVENTS*

Bryant Ridge's Analysis:

The Walther OSP is a legendary pistol renowned for its precision and performance in Olympic-level rapid-fire shooting competitions. Chambered in the .22 Short caliber, the OSP was specifically designed for the 25-meter Rapid Fire Pistol event, where it quickly established itself as a dominant force, often emerging as the perennial winner. Its design focuses on minimizing recoil and ensuring maximum control during rapid, consecutive shots. A key feature of the OSP is its Morini grip, which positions the bore at a lower level, reducing the muzzle rise and improving stability. Coupled with a weighted, ported barrel, this design effectively minimizes felt recoil to almost zero, allowing shooters to maintain a steady aim during rapid fire. The OSP is also equipped with a choice of two trigger weights—either 2.2 lb (1,000 g) or 3 lb (1,400 g)—to suit individual shooter preferences, further enhancing its reputation for precision and customizability. Despite its success, the Walther OSP was rendered obsolete by the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) rule changes in 2005. The new regulations standardized the rules for the 25m Rapid Fire Pistol event to align with those for the 25m Standard Pistol competition, which prohibited the use of the .22 Short cartridge, as well as wrap-around grips and very light trigger pulls. As a result, the OSP, with its specialized features tailored to the older rules, was phased out in favor of newer designs that complied with the updated regulations. One such successor was the Walther SSP, which was developed to meet the new ISSF standards while retaining the precision and performance characteristics of its predecessor. While the OSP is no longer in active competition, its legacy as a top-tier pistol in rapid-fire events remains cemented in the history of Olympic shooting sports.

Specifications:

• Manufacturer: Walther
• Model: OSP
• Serial: 11899
• Date of Manufacture: 1973
• Caliber: .22 Short
• Finish: Blue
• Barrel Length: 4 ½" 
• Optics/Sights: Interchangeable Patridge Style Blade Front with Adjustable Rear
• Stock/Grips: Custom Walnut Target Grips
• Action: Semi-Automatic Pistol
• Markings: The left side of the barrel and receiver is stamped with the Walther banner, "OSP Cal. 22 short", "Carl Walther / Waffenfabrik Ulm/Do.", date code "73", and the serial number 11899. The bottom of the receiver is marked with “MDW GUNS / Waterford, ME.”

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