[Herb]

Johnny, There is information that Erfurts did exist in 1918 as evidenced by the double dated 1918/1920 examples. The confusion I believe comes from the fact that so many Lugers were assembled by Erfurt using DWM parts and vice-versa that a true Luger actually totally manufactured by either is questionable at best during this time frame due to the Great War demands. As is documented, DWM did what ever they damn well pleased as far as numbering was concerned, continuing consecutive numbering until the end of the contract rather than beginning again at the end of each year as did Erfurt. All of this is confusing when trying to establish an exact, or close, date of manufacture using dates and numbers. The Kentucky Whisky is kicking in about now, I had best leave it as is.