1920 DWM .30 cal
 

im considering a 1920 DWM and I'm not sure what to ask the seller in regards to this piece, he claims its numbers matching but i don't see a number on the side plate...what exactly was numbered on a 1920 DWM? includes 2 mags (i believe not matching to the period but i may be wrong they are the black bottom magazines so please inform me of the correct magazines for this piece) he's asking $1,100 and his BOTTOM DOLLAR is $1,000. He's also minutes away form me which makes this luger VERY tempting, some input would be greatly appreciated, thanks gents!
-Justin

The sideplate is numbered, it's 2 digit at the bottom edge of the plate. Same is true for the takedown latch. Magazine should have walnut bottom, most likely unnumbered, silver bright body, bottom holding pin should be fire blued. Usually, it's very safe Luger, no gunsmith play game on this variation. I have one, one guy offered me $1300, I rejected, not because the price not being right, but this is my only Luger, so very precious to me.

Yes, there is suppose to be two numbers on Breechblock, extractor, grips, receiver, side plate, takedown lever, thumb safety lever, toggle and trigger. Full number on front of frame and bottom of barrel.

so it indeed is NOT numbers matching like advertised, so what would be a suitable offer? considering its got a few parts not matching, no matching magazines, but in pretty good condition, judging from the pictures.

whoa, whoa, lets figure out what it is before declaring it a mismatch. If it is fine.

Is it dated 1920?

I assume that is what you meant, but it makes a difference in if it is commercially marked or if it is military marked.....

edawrd here is a few of the pictures provided, it appears there is no date stamped, nor is there a serial # on the side plate, or take down lever.

sorry but my computers not uploading photos, but it appears as though the side plate, take down lever and safety bar is un numbered...

1920 DWM is an old name - is the serial number 4 digit with a letter under it or is it a 5 digit?

Since it is 30 Luger (7.65mm) I would expect it to be marked in the 'hidden' style, i.e. take-down lever and sideplate being marked with the last two on the bottom of the sideplate and takedown...

He told you his bottom is $1k, then it's $1k. Does not hurt to bargain a little bit, at least asking him to include shipping in. Shipping is not big money, but just like we (well,,, at least, I) keep turning off lights after leaving a room. Not really saved a few dollars per year that way, but that make us feel good. Of course, the bottom line is gun must be correct and original. If not? then, no need to bargain. There are many guns being original and correct.

Edward
it is a 4 digit with letter underneath, the letter "appears"... and i STRESS the quotations... to be an "n".
it "appears" because the quality of the picture isn't that great

true, but i don't want to give him $1,000 for an $800 firearm, and shipping isn't an issue due to him being in the same zip code...

Justin,

You are to be commended for exercising due diligence in the consideration of this Luger.

It sounds like you are a serious buyer, and you are willing and able to consider spending an adequate amount of money for engaging in the Luger collecting hobby at the entry level.

You lack the experience to know how to value this pistol, indeed, to know how to answer pertinent questions about it to determine that value. Please note that this is not a criticism. You have forthrightly represented your circumstances, and by contacting this Forum you have taken the first steps in rectifying this situation to becoming a knowledgeable and responsible buyer.

In my opinion, you should walk away from this deal. There are too many questions about this gun which cannot be answered without knowledgeable, detailed examination; or at least a number of specific, detailed photographs. Save your money, add to it, and spend your time poring over the Forum to become more familiar with the topic. Simple proximity to the seller should never be a primary consideration.

There will always be another Luger.

--Dwight

Justin
You just got some excellent advice from one who knows. Keep looking and you will find what you want. The wait will be worth it. Bill

$1000 can easily find a DWM 1920. No need to get one in hurry. That's true.

Thanks for the advice Dwight
looks like i'll sit on it and hold out for something better...

are you looking to buy a shooter or a collectors gun? if shooter, that 30 luger ammo is a cost to keep in minds

IIRC, Alphabet Commercials do not have numbered safety levers and grips from the factory.

As mentioned, walk away.

Commercial DWM Alphabet Lugers in 7.65mm Luger are valued less than military Lugers in 9mm or other military associated variants.

Watch here for members to list things. They are generally at fair prices, and if they have been collecting awhile should have a history you can check.

Marc

Hi All,

Just for your info: Fiocchi, boxer primed, .30 Luger ammo can be had at Graf & Sons for $23.99/box of 50. http://www.grafs.com/retail/catalog/...productId/3740 .

Bill

Here is what I gleaned from Jan Still's Weimar Lugers book:

Weimar Alphabet DWM Luger

Upright Crown over N proofs
7.65mm caliber
3 5/8" barrel
Un-numbered firing pin
Unmarked hold-open
Un-number wood bottom magazine
Not marked GERMANY
Commercial serial number range are in the i, k, l, m, n, o, p, q, r serial range
Primarily undated receivers
Some in the i suffix range are dated 1921
A few with 9mm pistols with 4" barrels were intended for military or police

Please correct me if I have posted erroneous information.
Please see Post #21 for additional information and clarifications. Thanks Dwight!

Bill