What is the best reference book on Lugers?
 

While I realize there are some database links on this site can anyone recommend the best reference book for Lugers? Is the one by Fred Datig good? Thanks.

For information on Nazi era Lugers I would recommend:
THIRD REICH LUGERS by Jan Still and
THE MAUSER PARABELLUM by Hallock and Van de Kamp

Tom

The links you cite above are your best bet.

But, you asked a good question, I will try and not misspell

Jones is a good book, some mistakes but its one of the first
Datig, good book, more 'readable' but same as above, remember both are 50 yrs old

Kenyon is very good but same as above

Walters 'The Luger Book" is a good read, his encyclopedia is good for general info

All of Jan Still's books are excellent

EVERYTHING depends on what YOU are looking for....

Most interested in Imperial German lugers as well as post-WWI commercial models. Thanks.

Well of all of Jan's books, he still has Central Powers which covers WW1 lugers and other guns - once sold out, it will go up in price.


Ed

While I layed on my back in a rehab hospital last summer,Debbie brought me one of Jans books, one a week. I fell in love with Imperial Lugers which contains German history and all forms of early Lugers are wound to go up. I have 4 lugers from this period. Make sure to ask questions!Take your time. Its like marriage, Find out every thing before you commit!. With the WW1 Anniversary the values and prices most certainly will go up! Eric

Thanks for all your suggestions. I have ordered the Walter book and will leave my impressions on this site once I have an opportunity to evaluate it.

I usually recommend Kenyon's "Lugers at Random" for beginners to get an overall view of ALL luger producers at a reasonable price. Then Still's series of 4 books on lugers for the most upto date info in an easy to reference format. TH

Great pickin! That a perfect choice

I have to go along with Tom (Lugerdoc). The very best reference for the beginning Luger collector is Kenyon's "Lugers at Random". The photos are black and white and some of the data is very much behind the times based on information gathered in the over 40 years since it was first published. But it is the least expensive, most comprehensive overview of the many variations of Lugers from beginning to end. Its "catalog" format provides easy access to the broad range of Luger types and variations.

Once a collector zeros in on the era or type of Luger they wish to collect, there are no finer references than Still's magnificent series. If you can afford them, the complete series is a wise investment. At a minimum, the latest opus "Central Powers Pistols" is a steal at the current price and should be snapped up before all of the current printing is gone. It is a masterpiece.

For the hard-core, serious collector the multi-volume set by Görtz/Sturgess that is currently available from Simpson, Ltd, as an advanced purchase prior to release is the absolute most comprehensive historical reference, albeit expensive, way to go.

Ron is absolutly right. Start with 'Lugers At Random' Its like the Sears catalog of lugers. Check out sites like Simpson Ltd. Another often passed my is searching lugers under Gunbroker. Be careful as it is like used car dealership of Lugers. I stick to our bros on this site for every thing Luger! The only caveat is one is never enough. Its one of my safer obsessions however just as costly!