what do i own

[Marvin]

lugerrookie,


You may have what is called the "1920 Commercial" made by DWM during the 1920s for commercial sales. As John stated, Germany was not permitted to produce weapons in 9mmP, so the proliferation of the .30 Luger came into its own during this period. Most of the .30 Luger pistols were destined for the US market and this caliber was very popular at this time. The 9mmP was not well know in the US.


To assist a little more with information, could you provide the serial number (just xx-out a couple of digits if you want) and the suffix letter if there is one. With the serial number, we can get close to a manufacture date for you. It sounds like your Commercial Luger has the Military style serial number placement. Are the numbers "44" also the last two digits in the serial number? Does the stamp "made in germany" or "germany" appear on the frame, receiver or barrel? Most of the ones stamped with this export stamp were destined for the US, Britain, or other countries. The ones not stamped could have been for sale within Germany. Does the Test Proof stamp (Crown/N or Crown/U) appear on the left or right side of the receiver?


Most of the Commercial pistols did not have the date stamped on the receiver ring. There is also the possiblity that the pistol could be a WWI rework into a Commercial pistol. If it was a WWI pistol, the chamber date would have been ground off and Commercial proof stamps located on the receiver. Are there several stamps on the right receiver with Crowns/Letter?


The Weimar Lugers are one of the more difficult to pin down sometimes as most anything could happen. Any additional information you can provide and we can help with more info.


Marvin