Another Navy II- Imperial-Weimar-3rd Reich
 

I just "like" these Navy lugers that started out as Imperial "Kaiserlichte Marine" pistols, and then served in the Weimar Reichsmarine, and finally the Kreigsmarine of the Third Reich.

This pistol was made as a 1917 dated M1914 sub variant of the P 04.
Serial 3687, it maintained most of its original parts during conversion, save the side plate, rear toggle with fixed sight that replaced the 2 position Navy sight, and the front sight ring/base.
It has been refinished in salt blue and straw at some point in its life.

Luger 3687 received the grooved firing pin upgrade and numbered rear pin during its travels. The original barrel was shortened to 4" and a new front sight base with ring set in place; it was then tapered from just forward of the original barrel markings to the new front sight ring. Many of these conversions were left in a "fat" barrel profile. The full four digit serial number was added to the right chamber flat; many conversions are numbered over the original Navy proofing and acceptance markings on the left flat. The original barrel serial number is continued on the bottom of the receiver and recoil lug(2 digits on each).

The pistol also came with a 1928 dated Frans Corbau black holster with M anchor and eagle(Weimar style)/M markings. The accompanying holster has provisions for the short cleaning rod inside. The Navy style magazine is possibly matching being highly worn, but could show "3?8?" but then perhaps not.

Enjoy the pictures, comments welcome.

I plan another thread showing the 5 "versions" of 4" Navy conversions I have, showing the several barrel profiles and two styles of rear sight; so stay tuned.:D

Awesome that you can find all the history on these. I'm impressed. Ok the
next question ..you know me..does it shoot? :)

I've had it 48 hours or so, so it has not been to the range- and probably won't. I have no doubt it will shoot, as all the parts are there.:D

Weimar lugers are just "dripping" with history; especially those like this one with Imperial roots, and an end career in the Third Reich- followed by a new life as souvenirs and then collectibles.

Jan Still's Weimar lugers is a great book with lots of history and examples; with additional info in the Goertz and Sturgess Books.
Both books have great pictures and Weimar Lugers has lists of grip markings and the pistols they are on.:thumbup: