Dumb question - what is meant by 80-85% Mauser?
 

Quoting from another thread, I read "Look for like a 80-85% Mauser and then it still has collectable appeal...."

Pardon my ignorance, but does this refer to the finish or the quantity of matching parts? ...or something else?

Thx in advance.
Zk
flunked pre-school at Luger University...

Zk, it would refer to the completeness or lack of the finish. Collectable appeal assumes, no demands, all matching parts.

both!
 

Hi Zonaken! Well, there are a lot of different aspects as to grading? In my mind, its a little of both! 80 to 85% (of finish remaining) pretty much takes it out of any level of collectability? But, this could be wear, pitting, modifications, and alterations?.. That's why real nice parts lugers are worth more than re-blued shooters...:eek:... Also, I think parts that are high mortality and often replaced have a lot to do with the overall grading, although it's hard to put a percentage on that aspect... It is all kind of a subjective hodgepodge of what you think most important, and what you can talk your self into or out of?.... For the most part, percent applies to finish, but it doesn't take into consideration of quality of finish, so it still remains that the best way to grade a Luger is by having it in hand, (in sunlight!) and as such, you can see for yourself! Oh my! Lot's to learn! til...lat'r....GT:cheers:

I find that a collectible luger can have a mismatched part or more- it depends on the the rarity of the luger.
Though an "all matching" pistol is highly desireable and "worth" more. JMHO.:cheers:

I am finding that my own personal definition of collectible is evolving. I started out mostly in the camp G.T. describes, +85% original finish and all matching parts. Then I discovered in practice, the acid test of collectible or not for me personally is, am I willing to shoot it? I have found I don't like to shoot all matching pistols with a quality refinish, or pistols with 60% or better original finish that have all or mostly matching small parts.

I'm also finding that for collectibles, I prefer pistols with visible wear over pristine examples.

Interestingly, this link defines 'collectible' as matching with 60% or better original finish remaining. Go to the 'general information' tab, open the FAQ link and page down to find the description of "collectible" http://www.lugerforum.com/

Very interesting thread.

To me a collectible is seriously “a collectible” only it has three qualities: it must be
scarce
original
and at least in fairly good condition.

Wow! Great info fellas!
Precisely the discussion I was hoping for.
Thanks for the clarification and lively debate.
It's all adding on to my preparation for that much anticipated first purchase.
Thx
Zk