"Well, Armourer, what do you recommend?"

Major Boothroyd put on the expert's voice. "As a matter of fact, sir," he said
modestly, "I've just been testing most of the small automatics. Five thousand
rounds each at twenty-five yards.
I'd choose the Walther PPK
7.65 mm. It only came fourth after the Japanese M-14, the Russian Tokarev and
the Sauer M-38. But I like its light trigger pull and the extension spur of the
magazine gives a grip that should suit 007. It's a real stopping gun. Of course it's
about a .32 calibre as compared with the Beretta's .25, but I wouldn't recommend
anything lighter. And you can get ammunition for the Walther anywhere in the
world. That gives it an edge on the Japanese and the Russian guns."

M turned to Bond. "Any comments?"

"It's a good gun, sir," Bond admitted. "Bit more bulky than the Beretta. How
does the Armourer suggest I carry it?"

"Berns Martin Triple-draw holster," said Major Boothroyd succinctly. "Best
worn inside the trouser band to the left. But it's all right below the shoulder. Stiff
saddle leather. Holds the gun in with a spring. Should make for a quicker draw



than that," he gestured towards the desk. "Three-fifths of a second to hit a man at
twenty feet would be about right."


"That's settled then." M's voice was final.

Dr. No, Chapter 2, Choice of Weapons