Test Luger Barrel and Frame: Questions
 

Just some rambling questions :)

While researching a recent post on AE Test lugers I found that many show different fonts on the barrel and frame.

Is this normal for AE's?

Have the barrels been replaced at the factory?

Could it be that the replaced barrels are a response from DWM on the rejects from the 6100-7100 range?

I noticed a distinct 7 with a foot on several examples.

Vern,
I have a couple of Test pieces with 7s in the serial number. The font on the fame and barrel is the same on both of them. However, since the 7 is stamped on the curve of the barrel flange, the lower end of the number is stamped deeper than the top and therefore flares out. This gives the vertical stroke of the 7 a slightly wedge-shape wider at the bottom. In the examples you posted, the “foot” of the 7s appear only visible on the left side. I suspect that is probably the same wedge-shape and not really a foot.

Thanks Ron!

I could tell they were deeply stamped, ( very interesting) something else to be aware of when doing our reviews of early guns.



Vern