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Unread 08-20-2007, 11:24 AM   #7
Dwight Gruber
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Dean,

You are of course correct about the S/42 code being in use in 1934.

The pattern of c/N application suggests that this gun was reworked by a firm most likely in Suhl. The dove/WaA on the breechblock is unexpected in combination with the other markings found on this pistol, and knowing if there is a c/N on the top of the breechblock would reveal a strong indication whether or not the breechblock is original to the comercial rework.

29DWM Lugers (which are those formerly referred to as "sneaks", an obsolete term) are found with s, t, or u letter suffixes, and proofed differently from yours. Along with the c/Ns, the lack of suffix on your pistol suggests that it started life as an Imperial military DWM. Sometimes the original marks were removed during rework and sometimes they were left in place. Very often the removal was done in a very craftsmanlike manner, and difficult to determine even under close observation.

The DWM manufacturing equipment and inventory was transferred to Mauser in Oberndorf in 1930. Lugers assembled by Mauser from these parts have characteristics which this gun does not share, most noteably a Crown/crown/U proof mark and letter suffix of v or later. Current research is supplanting much of the previously published material and "conventional wisdom" concerning this era of Luger production.

If you will do a Forum search on "sear safety" you will find many posts and photographs which clearly explain the device.

--Dwight
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