[Jan C Still]

1914 Erfurt, sn 2446 ns, marked G.K.122. Question: Nick where was this marking applied?

I have six G.K. marked Imperial lugers in my data base as follows:

1913 Erfurt, sn 321a, marked G.K.29.
1913 Erfurt, sn 403a, marked G.K.47.
1914 Erfurt, sn 2515 marked G.K.74.
1914 Erfurt, sn 2446, marked G.K.122.
1918 DWM , sn 3305a, marked G.K.126.
1918 DWM, sn 7402a, marked G.K.141.

However, the location nor format of the G.K. is not indicated in my data base.

The G.K. stamp is identified in the listed publications as follows:

The Imperial German Regimental Marking Revised Edition; by Jeff Noll page 44: G.K. signifies Garde Kurassier Regiment

German Small Arms Markings from authentic sources by Joachim Gortz and Don L. Bryans; page 40: G.K.5.74 signifies Garde Kurassier Regiment, 5 squadron, weapon 74.

HandBuch Deutscher Waffenstempel auf Militar- und Diensthandwaffen 1871-2000; by Albert Wacker and Joachim Gortz; page 31; G.K.5.74 signifies Garde Kurassier Regiment , 5 squadron, weapon 74

Central Power Pistols page 269: 1913 Erfurt, sn 321a, marked G.K.29. signifies Garde Kurassier Regiment Stab waffe 29.

History Writ in Steel German Police Markings 1900-1936 by L. Donald Maus page 257-258; G.K.128 on the front strap of a 1918 DWM signifies Gendarmeriekorps of Hessee weapon 128. He also indicates that the unit stamps are located on both the front strap or over the chamber. The over the chamber location is has not been previously reported on Imperial Lugers but is typical of some Weimar unit stamps. Also Maus reports that a number of these Lugers have police installed sear safeties.

I now agree with Don (George and Marc), the G.K. stamp represents Gendarmeriekorps of Hessee weapon 128. (Modified as per Dons comments below.)

Note: History Writ in Steel, German Police Markings 1900-1936 by L. Donald Maus is highly recommended and clearly the best book to identify German Police stamps.

Jan