[ithacaartist]

Hi Bill,

Welcome to posting on the forum...

I'm not so quick to make a decision for you about which pistol you might be happier with--kind of agree with Ed about acquiring within your genre of interest.

Simpson's is a reputable dealer, they apparently stand by what they sell. For this security, however, you will pay a little extra--but it can be worth it.

The 70s Mauser is one of the more desirable/scarce of those produced at that time. Fewer examples with '06 style frames than the other--Swiss style. Personally, these are more handsome. Sounds like basically a new pistol here, you get to break it in! Though manufacturing techniques for these deviate somewhat from the 'originals", they have a reputation for being generally well and fairly faithfully made, and are strong, durable shooters. This one is very nice and has the attractive, properly strawed parts.

The DWM is also charming and desirable (9mm). There is more of a statistical risk of breaking a part with the older guns, but not so great a consequence with a shooter. The early commercials are known for their great finishes and workmanship.

This is likely not news to you, since you've been reading the forum for a year, but I just wanted to add my $.02 worth. This would be a tough decision for me to make (love 'em all!) because the early one costs less--but the later one is all crisp and minty. If price were not an issue, I might flip a coin; or I might buy both! The latter might actually be a good idea because Lugers overall keep appreciating in value.

If you're good right now with either, wait for the opinions and observations by the members to all come in, and there might be something in the discussion that will make your decision easier.