My first C96
 

It's actually not my first C96. I played some importer marked ones, even tried to find a gunsmith with business name "Mentor Arms" who had done quality bore relining work. Unfortunately, I could not find him, probably retired at that time. I sold those guns.

It's not even my first C96 in good original shape. But it's the first one survived. I read somewhere a collector saying that he found his first few Lugers were all refurbished after he gained knowledge. I was fortunate enough to avoid that, but most earlier acquired guns in collection were sold later because I got better ones. But this one survived. It's a very common C96 with minor honest wear, I met many better ones later, but I did not upgrade because this particular instance has a special position in my mind.

Alvin, you may have met better ones, but they would have to be very nice to beat this one--a great looking pistol.

Neil

Thanks Neil. It's my first C96 that I really loved. That's special.

great looking c 96, be hard to beat this one

I guess it's made in 1915. The finish is more military like, but better done than those 1916 Red 9's. Another thing special about this one: it's the first time I saw a C96 with real nice bore. The bore of all others I had played earlier were like moon surface. It's a gem for me at that time and at now.

It's a beauty, Alvin!
You know, sometimes the beauty is in simple things.
We don't need only ultra rare guns to be happy.
Confratulations!
Douglas

Doug, thanks!

Since more people are interested in C96s now, I keep saying: starting from a common variation. Not only they are more affordable and more available, there is one important reason: it's those common variations made this gun world famous in history, not those rarely seen ones. Gradually going towards scarce ones.

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A video of a few years old. Enjoy!

http://archives.gunsandammo.com/vide...-pistol-c-1896