Franzite-bottom Sports,Inc Magazine

[runscott]

Okay, thanks. I'll put the bad magazine away and if I ever end up with another one with a bad spring, I'll order a couple and see what happens. If it turns out that someone here tells me that the metal magazine is period to my gun, I'll consider working on it.

[G.T.]

Hi runscott, Don is correct in that it's not worth much, as anything put into it, will not be realized in future speculation. As it will not be collectible after repair, either condition wise or as a desirable antique?
But, it does have some value as a shooter mag, and an example of type, if it is repaired as best we can, with what we got! I can restore it to its proper dimensions and also install a new made walnut bottom, (made by me and my elves!) and also a replacement follower spring as well... I do this for the members on the forum and also for my old age fun! I will do all for $40.00 which includes return postage... let me know at: gctomeks@msn.com if you are interested... You'll end up with a period correct shooter mag.. but that's better than nothing?.. best to all, til….lat'r....GT

[DonVoigt]

Originally Posted by runscott

Okay, thanks. I'll put the bad magazine away and if I ever end up with another one with a bad spring, I'll order a couple and see what happens. If it turns out that someone here tells me that the metal magazine is period to my gun, I'll consider working on it.

Definitely Not period to the pistol.

[runscott]

Originally Posted by DonVoigt

Definitely Not period to the pistol.

What is it about the metal part of the magazine that makes it "not period to the pistol?"

I'm asking because I'm trying to learn so I won't buy any modern magazines that have been made to look old - I would like to own a WWI Luger magazine at some point. Comparing mine to my mec-gar mag, the metal part looks very different. Comparing mine to the ones I'm seeing sold as authentic on eBay, here (one recently sold to a magazine expert on the forum),GB, etc, the metal part of mine seems to have all the same exact features. What am I missing?

Thanks!

[DonVoigt]

Originally Posted by runscott

What is it about the metal part of the magazine that makes it "not period to the pistol?"

I'm asking because I'm trying to learn so I won't buy any modern magazines that have been made to look old - I would like to own a WWI Luger magazine at some point. Comparing mine to my mec-gar mag, the metal part looks very different. Comparing mine to the ones I'm seeing sold as authentic on eBay, here (one recently sold to a magazine expert on the forum),GB, etc, the metal part of mine seems to have all the same exact features. What am I missing?

Thanks!

Short answer is "experience". You really have to handle and look at a lot of magazines from all periods, mfgs., both original and aftermarket.

Some points are: the crude construction in general, lips are minimal and thin, ugly cut outs for the base, shape of the mag catch notch, marks in the metal from forming, color/lack of finish of the magazine body, shape of the stake marks.

GT could probably add to the list.