DWM Commercial Alphabet P.08 Luger 7.65x21mm Parabellum Semi Automatic Pistol
Our Assessment: This particular Luger was refurbished and/or fabricated during the Weimar-era for commercial sales. It is chambered for the 7.65mm Parabellum cartridge, has a 3 5/8" long barrel and is marked "GERMANY" in English; all characteristics associated with a refurbished handgun destined for commercial sales in other nations. Between 1921-1928 there were a number of Lugers that were both refurbished and fabricated specifically for export, primarily to the United States with its large commercial firearms market (hence the English language "GERMANY" marking). These commercial exports are referred to today as the "alphabet commercial" Lugers due to the serialization pattern applied to them and the lack of most other markings typically seen on Luger P.08 handguns. This specimen has some light wear but is in quite good shape given its age. There is some slight variance in the condition of the markings, so it is difficult to say whether the pistol has been refinished since coming to America or if some parts simply required a little more time on the wheel when they were re-worked at the factory. The sideplate has been replaced, but other serial-marked parts are matching. The pistol retains a more than decent bore and strong mechanics. This a great option for collectors of historical firearms and Luger fans. Good luck on your bid!
Make: Deutsche Waffen-und Munitionsfabriken (DWM)
Model: Luger P.08 (Parabellum-Pistole)Serial#: 5116o
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1921-1928, C&R
Caliber: 7.65x21mm Parabellum (.30 Luger)
Action Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol (no magazine included)
Barrel Length: 3 5/8"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is serrated blade dovetailed to a banded base integral to the muzzle. The rear sight is a "V"-notch integral to the rear toggle link.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip panels are two-piece checkered wood. The grips have minor handling wear with a few light nicks and scuffs. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grip panels are in Very Good-Fine condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blue and Straw
Finish Originality: Refinished, the sideplate is not original to the gun.
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with sharp rifling. There is some scattered minor erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8 out of 10.Many military and C&R-eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide.
Overall Condition: The pistol retains about 92% of its current metal finish. The finish is thinning at some edges. There is some muting and handling wear in the strawed parts. There is infrequent minor surface oxidation, most notable on the sideplate. There are a few light nicks and small scratches. The action shows light operational wear. Most markings remain clear, the proof mark on the bolt is shallow and incomplete. The screwheads have light tool-marks with strong slots. Overall, the pistol is in Very Good-plus condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is barely perceptible play between the barrel assembly and frame. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None. Please note: no magazine is included.
CA LEGAL: C&R: YES, CA PPT: YES
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