No serial numbers, no proof marks!?
 

I have just been offered a DWM 7,65mm pistol with an under 4" barrel. I take it to be a 1920 commercial model. However, it has no proof marks and no serial numbers. There is a two digit number under the barrel, on the front grip strap and inside the top of the frame. It is rust blued with a not particuarly good polish to the metal and appears completely original.


Any ideas?


Thaks

Peter

Re: No serial numbers, no proof marks!?
 

i passed up a perfectly good artillery because it had no serials, not worth the hassle to have it reserialized to me. Sounds like someone is trying to unload it! Thor

As long as it doesn't appear to have been altered...
 

it should be okay to purchase it...


You can use the two-digit number you mentioned as the serial number. Are there any photos or scans available of this pistol? If so post'em here and give us a looksee...


Is the seller willing to give you a notarized bill of sale?


Go For It! It could be one of those 'lunch box specials' we have heard about, and perfectly legal to buy depending on where you live...


If it appears that the front of the frame has been ground and polished and re-numbered, or the lower is somewhat shorter than the upper receiver, be afraid, be very afraid...!


PASS!


-my $0.02


-John

Re: As long as it doesn't appear to have been altered...
 

Is the issue whether it is a stolen gun or an 'authentic' original? A two digit serial on the barrel doesn't sound proper. What is the statute of limitations on stolen handguns? (If it is a 'lunchbox' special, then it might have been stolen from DWM..they might still be looking for it).

The issue to me is its legal status as a firearm
 

If the number has been ground off the front of the frame, it is an illegal firearm regardless of it's origin. If the number (two-digit or otherwise) is original, then unless it is stolen, it is not an illegal gun.


The things that were done during the weimar era and the use of old parts to create the commercial pistols during the 20's means that there is a fair chance that this firearm is legitimate IF there is no evidence of grinding or serial number defacement.

Re: The issue to me is its legal status as a firearm
 

As the Luger was never serial numbered on the grip strap, it would be a stretch to accept the number as a serial number.

Re: As long as it doesn't appear to have been altered...
 

Sorry to read this so late John, this was the only photo I found.

Re: The issue to me is its legal status as a firearm
 

Thanks for the responses. I am not worried about the legal status because the gun is currently licensed. My thought is that it is a lunchbox special. There is no evidence of any grinding or other modifications.


Of course, if the seller doesn't accept my offer then it is all theoretical as far as I am concerned!


Peter