how to tell rework from original
 

Hello all: OK, I've been bit by the bug. I am a shooter, so far, not really a collector. I just bought a 1920 commercial in .30 and got what I think is a good price for a 95% or better pistol all around. My question is this. When it arrives I would like to have any tips for telling if there are any replacement parts or if the gun has been reworked. I have been told all serial numbers match ( show in pictures ), and other than this is there anything else? If I field strip it, anything more to look for? Thanks, Mark

Mark, welcome to the forum! :)

Lots of clues, ensure that it is all matching. Firing pin, breechblock, check the grips, etc. As a commerical it will or should be in the commerical, i.e. hidden manner... But 1920 Commercials also were reworks of old military from WW1.

So look for those clues too, i.e. serial numbering not in the commerical manner, old proofs from imperial, etc.

To tell reblue;
Look for bangs, nicks, etc., that have been reblued over them.
Look for rounded edges, where it was reblued by bob the gunsmith and not a actual arsenal.

Ed

PS: you'll hear this again and again, but books and studying is the most important thing. Buy Still's books, buy the era you are interested in and study the luger forums for all of the information.

Post good pictures. These folks will know.

rgg

Oceanica, another important factor is who did you buy the gun from and are they reputable.
DougT

Mark, If you are a shooter, then you will like the .30 Luger. Very accurate and fun to shoot.

Ron