I had a crazy idea, Looking for some input...

[4 Scale]

While I agree with all the cautions from various posters, I have to confess I've thought about this too.

The economic argument is to me the most compelling obstacle. I.e., a new production pistol that looks just like an original Parabellum and functions to the same level would cost significantly more than the $700-$1,300 that can buy a good original shooter nowadays. I am assuming small runs and best available computer assisted manufacturing.

However the equation is changing as computer-assisted small run manufacturing keeps getting better and cheaper. And the original Luger inventory ages. I simply don't see either trend changing.

I would love a new manufactured Artillery, Navy, Model 1900 and similar at a price under $1,000 as shooters. Question is how long until computer-assisted techniques enable a high-quality reproduction at that price. My guess is 5-10 years. As the OP suggests, I think it will likely be collectors banding together to avoid overhead and marketing.