Another test eagle
 

Here are a few pictures of a test Eagle that I recently purchased. It appears that this might be a new serial number, as this serial number is not on Dwights list. Ron says he has it on his list. In any case, being a new number or one that has been previously recorded, I am happy to be the new owner. I now own 7050 and this new (to me) serial number 6391. This test Luger is all matching including the grips. The toggle lock appears to have been reworked, but being a test weapon, repairs can be expected. Your thoughts and comments are welcome.

Mike

Mike, a stunning AE Test!!

Man, how I envy you Test Pistol owners!!

Congratulations! Another nice one.
I'd be more than happy to test your Test Eagles for you.:D

What are your thoughts on the witness mark???

A minor observation: From the picture, the right side of the take down level was polished in the past.

Fantastic Test Eagle. Don't you find it amazing that after all this time,they might still be found with matching numbered grip plates?
Congrats!
Mark

Astounding! Congratulations! :cheers:

Just 30 serial numbers into the 6361-7108 block in the Bannerman purchase.

Clark

Well, nobody else commented, so I will...The witness mark looks original, but is offset very slightly...maybe only 1/2 of 1º...I suppose that could be considered part of the "being a test weapon, repairs can be expected" theory...Perhaps removed for inspection and replaced just slightly off...Or maybe purposely offset to compensate for bullet drift...

It's interesting that it is unscrewed that 1/2 of 1º...

I thought about strawing again. Say, it's repaired in the past so some small parts could be refinished, that's normal. But in that case, why would gunsmith left the worn grip untouched. It's impossible to make sense out of everything.

Thanks for the nice and complimentary comments. To answer a couple that might need a little clarification: all the straw color looks to be a bit fresher than the pistol itself. I guess sometime in the one hundred plus years of its existence, somebody thought a new straw job would make it look better. As far the the witness marks, the difference is so slight, I really don't think there is any cause for concern. It is highly possible that someone removed the barrel and could not fully tighten it. Yes, I do agree that it is amazing that the original grips are still on the Luger. The numbers are very clear and the proof marks, that were discussed in an earlier thread, are very clear as well. The left grip panel does look like it has excessive wear in the photo. That is only a result of poor lighting; both grip panels are in great condition. And finally to Clark, yes it is rather amazing that this is only the 30th or so in the Bannerman lot. Thanks again for all the kind words,

Mike

I don't either (struck angle and depth are consistent on both sides); I was curious as to whether anyone else had a reason for the marks to be divergent.

I suppose it's possible the barrel might have been removed to inspect/measure bore erosion or rifling wear; I'm not familiar with any test criteria for any pistol, which was my intent in asking.

I agree; a beautiful Test Luger. I wish I could afford to indulge in acquisitions like this myself... :D

AE Test Lugers, VoPo/Russian capture Lugers, and possibly the French post-war rebuilds/assemblies seem to be the only Lugers that collectors agree can have mismatched/force matched/refurbed parts and not lose collectibility/value...

...Hmmmmm???...

Don't forget acceptability of repaired Dutch and Finnish pistols. Also authentic Swiss rebluing.

--Dwight

Congratulations for your new find.
It is a great pistol, for sure. I would love to have it in my collection, but AE Lugers are almost impossible to find down here.

All the best,
Douglas

Mike,

Congratulations on your excellent A.E.! It's a beautiful pistol.

Marc

I was able to handle this gun before it was sold. It is a very nice eagle. Sold in a small local auction here. Congrats on the test gun. You were bidding against me..
Russ