Unit Markings
 

Hi all, I just joined the group, and have a couple of questions.
First, what are these unit markings? My pistol is a 1912 DWM, all matching except mag.

Second, does anyone have any history of this unit (battles, famous people, etc).

I can't seem to get the pic of the grip strap, so here goes:

B.21 R.11 K 1a

Appears to have been remarked, as I can see "MG" under the "11.K"
Thanks in advance, Steve

Look like there is a forum for this subject. Sorry!

The initial marking indicates Bavarian 21st Infantry Regiment, 11th Company. The MG and 1a would indicate that it was subsequently assigned the 1st machinegun detachment. The ist detachment interpretation is speculation on my part.

Hi Steve, and welcome to the forum.

Many of these earlier Lugers went into Bavaria.

This should get you started on the Bavarian history:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/III_Royal_Bavarian_Corps

The Bavarian 21st Infantry Regiment was organic to the 5th Bavarian Division, part of the 3rd Bavarian Corps, of the 6th Army (Crown Prince Ruprecht of Bavaria) and remained so from 1914 through 1918. Battle history: 1914 - fought in Lorraine, Woevre; 1915 fought in Champagne and Woevre; 1916 fought in Artois, Somme; 1917 fought in Artois, Belgium and Flanders; and, in 1918 fought in the Battle of Picardy and Battle of the Somme. In 1918, the British rated this division as First Class.

Your Luger has an excellent history behind it!!! Congrats.

Ron

The "1a" is a bit different. Usually the last digit is a property number and I haven't seen one with a suffix.

Wow! Thanks for the history. If I can figure out how to load pics, I'll take some.
It's in real good shape, considering its age. It doesn't have the hold open device.
Not a bad piece for $500.00 (1983 dollars)