New guy here with a 1939 mauser 42 luger

[boyd]

Originally Posted by Doubs

The numbers inside the side plate were likely put there by factory inspectors.

When the pistols were initially sighted in, the front sight height could be changed to achieve zero at the desired distance. Thus they were made in different heights and marked accordingly.

The change from S/42 to just 42 came in 1939. S/42 production in 1939 was approximately 38,500. The production of 42 Lugers began about serial number 200r and your serial number suffix letter is a W. There were approximately 85,500 Lugers marked 42 produced in 1939. If I had to guess - and that's what I'm doing - I'd say your Luger was made in September, 1939. It could have been late August or even early October but IMO the best guess is September.

Originally Posted by tharpo

It is possible the front of the frame serial number and the inside of the sideplate were restamped at the factory to correct mistakes. The #31 on the sideplate is the correct one. It is the first two numbers of the serial number plus 1. The fonts on everything look original.

Tom

Thank you very much for your replies, much appreciated.

What about the magazines? Are they from the right period? They have different stamps, and colors, attatching pictures of them.

One magazine sometimes lock up the toggle link when there is a round still left, but the other one works perfect.

Thanks again