Hi Eric, Mario, Marc, Eugen, and Richard,
Many thanks for all your comments! Yes it's true that owning and using firearms here in EU is not as easy as in the US... more details in my post "Ownership of Firearms in the Netherlands" within the "General Discussion" section. However, once you get through the startup phase (2-3 years!) things go more smoothly.
I called our LGS who said they have Fiocchi 115 grain standard load available, I believe FMJRN. I'll go with that first. Subsonic was recommended to me, but I'm hesitating with that after your comment Eugen on the increased force exerted on the toggle train by the heavier bullet. I'll have to transfer the paperwork on the shooter before I can use it.... but I'm working on that. I also have to bring the secretary of the gun club with me as I am not allowed to buy 9mm ammo on my own yet (Dutch law). So.... have to be patient. Only 8,5 more months
Thank you Marc for your time and your observations... AND your book suggestions! We have a good outlet here where I can order virtually any book in print. Can't wait....
I am already experiencing the fun of exchanging ideas and seeing history come alive... of seeing excellent collections and talking to experts- purely as a result of this forum- in many ways more rewarding than working with these handguns themselves- as interesting as they are in their own right...
We are going to the Belgian Ardennes soon... I hope to go to Bastogne again on this trip. I will take photos (if they allow it) and post them here... perhaps can find some interesting literature, or even some Luger user manuals or other similar things..... Will also visit the War Museum in Overloon; that's 30 minutes from here and I haven't been there since they renovated the whole place. A Sherman tank, half tracks, Jeeps, uniforms, all kinds of cool stuff. Bye for now....