Rock Island Auction has close to 180 lugers and accessories now listed! I understand their commissions are way high. Has anyone bought or sold a luger using their service? Is it a buyers or sellers environment!! Do they have any control over your asking price? Can you post a reserve? Would you use Gunbroker instead? Tks ~~~~Eric

The more I study R.I.A.'s description of this piece, the more convinced I am that they have acted in a most shameful manner. Ron Wood has described their description of this gun as being "carefully crafted to avoid any positive statement of authenticity", but it seems to me that they have made a serious effort to imply, just the opposite, that this carbine was "custom" made, under the personal supervision of George Luger himself, for presentation to a person of importance, presumable President Roosevelt.
No mention is made that the serial number and GL monogram are fake, yet consider this quote from their description:
"This pistol, having the unique serial number range and the special "GL" type monogram was more than likely developed for special presentation purposes".
A particular irony is the posting of Ralph Shattuck's guarantee of authenticity, under the heading "Our client's best interest is our primary concern".
Regards, Norm

Norm
I still don't understand where the Teddy Roosevelt connection comes from?
Even if it was a real presentation luger,why would it have a connection to a President?
Was this story attached to the gun from a previous owner,to give validity to the selling price ?
Similar to Louis Comfort Tiffany and the "Curse of the Hope Diamond" story?
Bob

Fred Datig Adddressed This Very Issue in 1962
 

in his Blue luger book!

I wrote to the President Roosevelts' home and museum veryfing weather the carbine is still there and if possible its serial number and maybe a picture. My major in History sure helps!~~~ Eric

The case for TR's carbine is in the museum but the gun is long gone, whereabouts unknown. The imprint of the special rear tangent sight is clearly visible in the case lining.

Shucks!!!! I wonder if it was engraved!

too bad this man was duped.

Gentlemen, once again a very informative thread. After reading this I had to go look at my piece of history to appreciate it even more.

All I can say is anyone purchasing anything from RIA had better examine it in person. Their descriptions are flowery at best and out right lies at worst. RIA is buyer beware!!