[Hugo Borchardt]

It is unfortunate that many sellers are misleading. I have a real problem when I feel that it is intentional, either through omitting obvious information or through plain BullSpit, as in these instances. When I first started collecting I was burned several times this way.

I'd like to point out, though not the case in these examples, Lugers have many variations and obviously are very complex, and it is also very common that someone just doesn't know the truth, are spouting what their uncle or someone at a gunshop told them, and/or is just understandably incapable of accurately describing what they are selling. One common example that comes to mind is saying a gun is all-matching, and it turns out the replaced barrel has no serial number at all so technically all of the numbers that were there matched. On 1900's, it irritates me when no photos are provided of the safety in the upward position such that the polished area is displayed.

I don't think David hijacked the post (w due respect to moderators), just provided a second example.

I think this is a great post for the "New Collectors" area as a great big warning. I think most of us welcome the opportunity to assist those making a purchase by pointing out potential pitfalls or errors in the listings, (as well as pointing out some good things about the items!). I've been collecting and studying for quite a while now, and I still beg the opinions of the experts before I make most purchases!!!

Clark