1916 DWM P-08 Luger
I had decided I wanted a 1916 Luger some time ago. This one's finish is a little rough, with some pitting from rust, but it's all matching except for the magazine, and the bore and internals are in very nice condition. It breaks my heart to see pistols in such near pristine condition, only to have become ravaged by the carelessness of an owner at one time down the years. This was a really valuable Luger at one time, or would be today, if a previous owner had just spent that much more time with a rag and some gun oil. What a pity.
Left side, showing the rust freckling on the barrel and sideplate.
With a little bit of scrubbing, I have removed the worst of the rust. Unfortunately at the cost of the finish, but that damage was done.
German Imperial proof marks and acceptance stamps.
Grips have matching serial numbers as well.
All in all it's a nice Imperial Luger, and I am proud to have it in my custody.
The piece has matching numbers all through it.
Another shot showing the pin and striker removed.
The inside of the frame is "in the white", and doesn't show too much wear. Though there is some oxidation.
I've never bothered to learn what these marks mean, but there sure are a mess of them.
Complete frame assembly.
Another shot showing multiple s/n's...and one annoying fingerprint!
The frame front marks...and more fingerprints! Wipe, THEN photograph...Doh!
The "DWM" logo, Deutsches Waffen und Munitionsfabriken.
Date stamping. Nice and crisp!
The sideplate is battered, and shows signs of much corrosion over the years.
Another proof I don't know much about. Though out of focus, you can see the '99' on the safety here as well.
Inside of the grips showing the s/n.
More mystery marks from the production line on the grip.
Back together and ready for action. The magazine is an unmarked reproduction with a WW2 style aluminum bottom. I will be trying to find a period correct replacement.
Under natural light, with the obligatory picnic table shot.
This pistol has a bit of rust here and there, with some barrel pitting inside and out. Though not bad in either area. It was a good, honest example of a WW1 combat weapon which has been around now for 92 years. I think it is in fine shape for being that old, and not being in a museum somewhere. SOLD!!!