What Gun Did James Bond Carry?
James Bond, the iconic secret agent created by author Ian Fleming, has been a staple of popular culture for over six decades. One of the most distinctive aspects of Bond’s character is his trusty sidearm, which has changed over the years but remains an integral part of his image. In this article, we’ll delve into the various guns that James Bond has carried throughout his film and literary career.
The Early Years: Beretta 418 and Walther PPK
In the early Bond novels and short stories, Fleming described Bond as carrying a Beretta 418. This small,.32 ACP caliber pistol was a popular choice among Italian gangsters and secret agents alike. However, it was not a practical choice for a combat agent, and Fleming later changed Bond’s sidearm to the Walther PPK.
The Walther PPK, or Polizeipistole K, was a compact,.380 ACP caliber pistol designed for the German police. It was an excellent choice for Bond, as it was lightweight, reliable, and accurate. The PPK remained Bond’s sidearm of choice until the late 1980s.
The Golden Age: Walther PPK/S and Smith & Wesson Model 39
During the golden age of Bond films, which spanned from the 1960s to the 1980s, Bond carried the Walther PPK/S. This larger-caliber version of the PPK was a natural evolution of the original design and offered improved stopping power.
In the 1970s, Bond’s sidearm was briefly replaced with the Smith & Wesson Model 39. This.38 Special caliber revolver was a departure from Bond’s traditional pistol-based sidearms but offered improved accuracy and range.
The Modern Era: Beretta 92F and Walther PPK/S
In the 1990s, Bond’s sidearm underwent a significant change with the introduction of the Beretta 92F. This 9x19mm Parabellum caliber pistol was a more modern and practical choice for Bond, offering improved firepower and reliability.
In the 2000s, Bond’s sidearm was once again changed to the Walther PPK/S. This was a nostalgic nod to Bond’s original sidearm, but with modern improvements such as a more ergonomic design and improved accuracy.
Notable Exceptions: The Oddjob Briefcase Gun and The Quantum of Solace Gun
There have been a few notable exceptions to Bond’s traditional sidearm choices. In the 1964 film Goldfinger, Bond’s nemesis Oddjob used a golf ball-armed briefcase gun to kill his enemies. This humorous and over-the-top device has become an iconic part of Bond’s legacy.
In the 2008 film Quantum of Solace, Bond’s sidearm was a HK USP Compact. This 9x19mm Parabellum caliber pistol was a significant departure from Bond’s traditional sidearms, but was used for a limited time before being replaced with the Walther PPK/S once again.
Comparison of James Bond’s Guns
| Gun | Caliber | Weight | Magazine Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beretta 418 | .32 ACP | 590g | 6-round |
| Walther PPK | .380 ACP | 560g | 6-round |
| Walther PPK/S | .380 ACP | 640g | 8-round |
| Smith & Wesson Model 39 | .38 Special | 680g | 6-round |
| Beretta 92F | 9x19mm Parabellum | 900g | 15-round |
| Walther PPK/S (Modern) | 9x19mm Parabellum | 720g | 12-round |
| HK USP Compact | 9x19mm Parabellum | 900g | 12-round |
Conclusion
Throughout his film and literary career, James Bond has carried a variety of guns, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. From the early Beretta 418 to the modern Walther PPK/S, Bond’s sidearm has played a significant role in shaping his image and abilities. Whether you prefer the compact and accurate Walther PPK or the powerful and reliable Beretta 92F, James Bond’s guns are an integral part of his legend and a testament to his enduring popularity.
