Bing, Bing, - Round 3!!
Hey Ron, I thought you would do all the explaining, but I shall add a few comments and let you carry on!
Firstly, I would like to point out a few details regarding the 1900 British Test Luger serial #26:
1) It has a radius toggle link;
2) It has TWO recoil retainer springs, one clockwise and the other anti-clockwise;
3) It is numbered in the early style with no 'GL';
4) It has an hand engraved Swiss cross on the chamber;
5) It has a standard 1900 trigger, not the thin type of the 1899 model;
Based on various articles which have been written, it is assumed that the serial range of these early pistols went up to 40, and maybe slightly higher (includes the Swiss, Dutch and British Trail pistols). This makes me wonder from where the other serial #26 surfaced unless it was hallmarked 'GL' using a 1900 Commercial pistol.
In order for a Luger to be hallmarked 'GL', it would require that the pistol be an experimental/test pistol; a pistol with a special feature; or a presentation - I do not notice anything special on the other serial #26 which justifies a 'GL'. Lastly, the same Luger has a relieved grip (look at the magazine) which would be very suspicious on a pistol with such a low serial number - I rest my case.
Beware,
Albert
|