Collector's standards for Lugers
 

I'm sure it has been talked about many times but I was curious what most collectors look for and what they are willing to compromise on when getting a Luger? Of course 100% original finish, completely matching #'s is what everyone wants but with availability of funds and Lugers that isn't always an option. For me in a military Luger I will sacrifice some original finish, bore condition isn't terribly important but I do place value on matching #'s but not matching mag's or even firing pins or hold opens. A commercial I place more importance on original finish condition and matching #'s, bore condition I don't expect pristine but I don't want a haled out one either. Just curious what other guys think is important.
Jim

I think you covered it quite well Jim............

Unless it's a very rare variation, bore condition does matter to me. I won't buy a shot out or badly corroded bore. Otherwise, matching numbers, grip condition and original finish are important.

I look for a complete gun in working order with the matching parts. I'm most curious about the technical and mechanical details of a gun, as well as the accessories. I have two lugers for shooting, as well.

In my experience, if the bore is trash and the outside is excellent I'm pretty sure it refinished.

G2

Jim did cover it well, although we all look different on bores, what is a percentage of finish, and for me, rarer or desirable I will let the other things slide a bit.

Beginners vs more advanced collectors will also influence choices to acceptable and desired qualities.

The better the price the more issues can be tolerated, within a range.

Wear is not only OK but actually desirable, given the number of refinishes I have seen that a seller touted as high condition/original finish. I generally tolerate hold opens and grips not being numbered to the gun as those numbers are not visible unless the pistol is dis-assembled.

Personally I don't acquire pistols with significant visible rust, that tends to be a deal killer for me.

Inflation!

It depends on variation, markings, interest, needed for study in my case. I'm not too interested in 'perfect' examples as my budget is limited.

I'd rather purchase an ugly gun with a cool feature than a perfect gun with none. Excessive rust and over the top refinishes are a no go to me, arsenal refininishes excluded.

I could not have said it any better myself and Vlim's requirements reflect my own to a tee.

One thing an 'ugly' gun usually has over a 'pimped' gun is history and that history is what makes collecting such an exciting addictive endeavor. :thumbup: