Noob - commercial, military?
 

Hello,

Could someone pls explain the differences between commercial and military Lugers?

Thanks,

One of the first things that jumps out is with Military models the markings of the serial numbers on the parts will be right out in the open in plain view.

On the commercial versions they tend to put them in a less noticable spot. They also tend to have other markings like "Germany" for export but not always.

Commercial Lugers will also be stamped with a Crown N proof mark on the receiver and bottom of the barrel.

Thanks, guys.

Is there some significant difference to justify the two categories? Barrel length or tolerances?

Throughout the existence of DWM their focus was on high volume precision production. The military market was the logical target for their production techniques. The civilian market, with smaller volumes and the individual customer desires for custom features was not DWM's market of choice.

It appears that DWM did not, for instance, have a factory engraving facility. All verifiable DWM markings are roll die engraved or stamped, not hand engraved, even on very small contracts, There are only 3 barrel lengths on pistols, the 4 inch standard and the artillery length in 9 mm and 4 3/4 in 7.65 mm. The Carbines have a single length longer barrel There is an argument that civilian Luger's pre 1918 were primarily from rejected military parts. Others can offer more expert opinion on that. The Luger carbine, which is very rare, is the only truly civillian model before the end of WWI.

After WW1 DWM was forced into commercial production and these Post War Lugers are of very high quality, comparable to early military production (maybe better). They are also currently priced lower than pre 1918 Lugers. The DWM commericial from the 1920s come in a bewildering variety, as would be expected for the civilian market. DWM did not thrive in this civilian market and production went to Mauser who again was able to concentrate on military markets because of changes in politcal conditions

Thanks, Heinz. Now it's clear.