Magazine Issue?
 

I have an all matching 1936 S/42 and the toggle will not go into the fully locked position. The magazine does not stay all the way in the gun when inserted ( see pics ) it springs down slightly. I have tried the numbered mag to the gun as well as a Mecgar one. If I push on the bottom the mag while pulling the toggle back it will lock but releases as soon as I remove the pressure from the bottom of the magazine. Anyone have any idea what can be causing this?

Any help is greatly appreciated!!!

My first guess would be a worn magazine release. The toggle issue may be remedied by a complete cleaning.

Perhaps a holdopen spring .. it might just be bent out of adjustment? If it were bent down and too strong it could push down on the mag button enough to overcome the mag spring.

Just gave her a good cleaning and looked at the hold open spring as well. Everything seems to be working fine but mags still stick out of the bottom slightly and toggle won't go all the way into locked position. :banghead:

mags still stick out of the bottom slightly..This more common than not on Lugers and is not a real indicator of anything IMO.

Have you looked at the underside of the bolt? At the bolt stop slot? This should be sharp and in good condition. Remember the bolt will stay back only if both the holdopen and this slot mate up well..

Have you shot the pistol and it will not stay open? Or are you just operating it by hand?

Did you actually take out the holdopen and spring? Or just inspect it in place?

Just operated by hand. I did not remove the spring, just inspected in place. I was afraid I would be opening a big can of worms! :eek:

Then you may not have the problem you think you have. See if it happens when actually firing the pistol.