[Ron Wood]

Your very nice Luger is a 1906 (also called 1900/06 by the Swiss) Swiss Military 2nd Variation. The Model 1906 Swiss Military was produced by DWM in two series. The first variation had the Cross in Sunburst chamber marking like the preceding Model 1900 and was produced in the serial number range from 5001 to 9050. In 1909 the chamber marking was changed to the Cross in Shield and this 2nd variation was produced in the serial number range of 9051 to 15215. The Swiss did not start producing their own Lugers at Waffenfabrik Bern until 1918 with the serial numbers continuing in the same sequence, picking up with the next number 15216, and without a chamber insignia.

The Cross in Shield variation like yours was for years mistakenly identified as “Swiss Police” but this was in error as the pistols were actually still military issue. Your particular Luger is interesting as it is one of a few noted in the serial number range of approximately 10000 to 12000 that do not bear the inspection stamp of Major Vogelsang. The large “P” on the receiver indicates that the pistol was released from military service into private ownership, possibly upon retirement of the individual issued the piece.

Even with the mis-matched parts, you have an attractive and collectable Swiss Luger. Congratulations!