Re: Under the microscope
Ray,
Joe is correct that the insoection stamps are "hit" after the receiver is hardened and this results in the stamps being worn faster than the date and code stamps. In addition, the date and code stamps are much larger than the inspection stamps and again, they wear at a much faster rate. Another thing about the inspection stamps is how "hard" the inspector hits the stamp. I have a couple of Lugers where the stamp was hit so hard, it is difficult to tell what the stamp is. Other times, the stamps are hit so light, they are almost not there. The light hit and the heavy hit sometimes gives the appearance of being buffed.
This is a good observation which you made on the stamps and and the question is good. When a reblue job is done on a Luger, there are usually other tell-tale signs to look for in addition to the stamps, but when a good job is done, it is sometimes difficult to tell. If you have ever seen any of the Rust Blue jobs that Ted does, you must know exactly what to look for as the job is so good.
Keep us informed with other observation you make under the microscope, it is interesting.
marvin
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