Clarification Request on Sideplate Numbering
 

I am not clear on which WWII sideplates are numbered on the inside surface with a number one digit higher than the first two digits of the serial number. My limited collection does not show such numbers on my K and G dates, but I do find it on my Lugers dated 1940 and later, with the exception of a 41 dated Mauser. Exactly which sideplates are expected to have this numbering system, and are there some WWII sideplates not so numbered?

Re: Clarification Request on Sideplate Numbering
 

Good question, John.

Does anyone know if there is clear documentation on this subject?

Re: Clarification Request on Sideplate Numbering
 

The inside trigger plate numbering started somewhere around the H-Block 1936. Up until the N-Block 1939 the numbers are sporatic, some being the same as the first two digits and some up one digit. After the H-Block of 1939 most will be one higher than the first two digits. Hope this helps!

Re: Clarification Request on Sideplate Numbering
 

Sometime in late 1938 early 1939 the system was changed from having the first two digits of the serial number inside the sideplate to having the number one digit higher than the serial number. DWM used the first two digits of the serial number on the WWI militaries, but I don't have enough data to say when this was started. I have a 1911 DWM that doesn't have it and a 1914 that does. DWM stamped theirs on the inside bottom edge of the sideplate. I don't believe Erfurt used it, but there are few absolutes in Lugers.

Any input would be helpful and appreciated.

Re: Clarification Request on Sideplate Numbering
 

I didn't think the Germans used many 1911 or 1914 DWM's in WWII! But it's interesting information, never the less.

Re: Clarification Request on Sideplate Numbering
 

I have never seen any data as to how many WWI Lugers were also used in WWII. Do you have access to this information, and/or where did you get your data.

Re: Clarification Request on Sideplate Numbering
 

The original question was in regards to WWII Lugers, which I took to mean Mausers!

Re: Clarification Request on Sideplate Numbering
 

I had no idea that additional information on the system of numbering the sideplate should not have been posted. My apology for all the confusion I might have caused.

Re: Clarification Request on Sideplate Numbering
 

All,

Don Hallock has done extensive research on the numbering inside of the side plates and would more than likely to be glad to share some of his conclusions with the Forum. If I remember correctly there is a definite pattern to them. In return he probably will ask all of you to fill out a matrix that he has developed that collects pertinent numbers and proof marks on each Luger he encounters to aid in his research. Lyn

Re: Clarification Request on Sideplate Numbering
 

Lyn,


Would it be possible for you to have Mr. Hallock allow us to put his findings in the Technical Information section of the Forum and in return, we can provide him with the informtion on our Lugers?


This question always comes up several times a year and having this on the Forum would sure be great information.


Marvin

An Ecellent Idea Marvin! (EOM)
 

Re: Clarification Request on Sideplate Numbering
 

Marvin, really good idea, but since Don is in the middle of writing a book, he may not be to interested in sharing a whole bunch of data (maybe so too). If he could get some data in return, that might help persuade him. Some of the info I presented in this thread was generated from data I received from Don.