Hi Jeff,
Generally, to seek to restore a Luger to its original condition using parts that are genuine to the period, and possibly correct is certainly not unethical, but if the gun "restorer," later sells that Luger to another potential collector without identifying the fact that certain numbered parts have been replaced, as "all matching"... that is where the line of ethics is crossed.
Advanced collectors can research and generally tell if a part is made by the same manufacturer as the host gun... and is authentic... or has been substituted by the current or previous owner. These members are the knowledge "sharers"
New or inexperienced collectors are easily taken advantage of by unethical dealers and collectors, and that is part of what this forum is all about: Educating Luger collectors and enthusiasts to the fine points of Luger research and authenication so that less fraud can take place.
Does that answer your question?
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regards, -John S
"...We hold these truths to be self-evident that ALL men are created EQUAL and are endowed by their Creator with certain UNALIENABLE rights, and among these are life, LIBERTY, and the pursuit of happiness..."
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