We do know that 1,000 pistols were issued and that Bannerman purchased only 770... supposedly the entire remaining inventory. That means that 230 were lost, stolen, destroyed or somehow not among those turned in. Having had experience with the military forces of other nations, isn't it possible that Hans Tauscher and DWM may have anticipated losses and had a few extra guns sent to replace damaged guns? It would seem to have been a prudent move considering the distance barrier between the US and Germany. It's a pretty good bet that a stock of spare parts and a skilled workman or two were available to Tauscher so why not a few extra pistols for quick replacement of guns that couldn't be repaired? Once the extra guns were gone, normal attrition set in.
Yes, this is all theory and guess work without proof positive. But, until someone has that proof or a better idea it's still the best bet going. IMO, of course.
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