[mrerick]

Justin, your observation is accurate, and the potential for faking and fraud is there in Lugers.

Volume of sales and slickness of appearance of websites is not a good indicator of honesty either. You will find very well presented fakes out there. And some are not at the higher end of values either.

What you are struggling with is accepting the need to study at "Luger University". This involves seeing real authentic firearms that are in original condition in person as well as studying the numerous collector books and guides. The books seem very expensive because they are often out of print, were made in shorter runs and are large and expensive to publish. They are, however, a wonderful investment because they can help you identify when something is correct, avoiding losses to the fakers and fraud sellers.

All this is difficult because it somewhat inhibits a casual interest in Lugers. Without the commitment to study, you are often anxious about any acquisition.

It helps to have friends, trusted sellers, a website community like this one and adequate time to evaluate new purchases. This is also why the no questions return inspection period is important on all acquisitions.

i once was challenged with acquiring a replacement part for a Simson Luger. These are literally made of "unobtainium". Scarcer than hens teeth. One parts "dealer" offtered to "make" me one by applying a fake inspection stamp. I'll never do business with that person. Eventually, a forum member here very generously made one available to me, for which I am ever grateful. You will thankfully find that integrity and generosity are personality traits of many Luger collectors.

Marc