Von Lengerke & Detmold
 

This company was a Mauser representative from the 1890s' until 1928 when they were absorbed by Abercrombie & Fitch. They sold Lugers and Mauser C96 pistols. I just purchased one that was made in 1905 and I would love to know who bought it. My question is, has anybody heard of their sales books being saved after the merger? If they existed, they would be a treasure trove of information. Has anybody ever heard of someone who now has them and is willing to pass along the info to collectors. Thanks.:thumbup:

Their record is still there, currently owned by Griffin & Howe.

DWM's representative in US was not VL&D. Lugers were sold in US by another German, T...., I forgot his name. If it's a Luger, no VL&D record. If it's a Mauser pistol or rifle, you can find the some s/n in the following link. Looks like records before 1901 were lost, but a s/n circa 1905 should be no problem.

http://secure.griffinhowe.com/resear...al.cfm?make=32

If you pay them $50, they will mail you a copy of the page contains your gun. When it arrived to them, when it was sold, sold to whom.... It's interesting to read.

I have owned a couple ,non luger , holsters with their trade mark on them. Bill

Thanks Alvin!!
 

Your link to Griffin & Howe paid off. According to their website, a copy of the original sales book page and other items pertaining to your gun now run $60. Darn cheap if you ask me. I called today and was told a Mr. bob Beach handles all of the historical enquiries and he was not in today. I left word and hopes he calls back. By the way, my gun is a C96 Mauser made in 1905 with the VD&L stamp on it. I have a copy of their 1922 catalog and they show 4" barreled Lugers at $25 and 8" Lugers at $40.

Thank you Griffin & Howe
 

Mr. Beach, the historian from Griffin & Howe promptly contacted me and gave me the information I wanted. For $30 they will send you a photocopy of the sales ledger and other documents that pertain to your gun. Top notch people :rockon: