LugerForum Discussion Forums - View Single Post

Frank · 09-11-2004, 01:03 PM

Jerry, I could not agree with you more.

There were about 11000 K-Dates produced, give or take a few. I know there are at least six variations (Still says 5). There are only about 1700 1st Variations. There many are fewer transition between the 1st an 3rd Variation. So if you can get any of these pistols, in whatever condition (at a price commenserate with the condition) it may be worth considering. As an example, Simpson's Limited is advertising a "mint" 1st Variation Rig for $13,500

Thor has restored two of my K-Dates. The first was a 1st Variation pitted mess, but totally matching, except the magazine. The condition was so poor, Thor had to have the WaA Marks re-established, along with several proof marks. The second was a 3rd Variation, again all matching, except the magazine, that someone had "sanded or polished down" the receiver and cold blued that part. Thor established the position of the WaA Marks and had the engraver duplicate them.

I firmly believe that the restoration will always be obvious, but the pistol is as close as possible to the condition in which it left the factory.

I wish that I could get all these variations in mint condition, but no one knows how many of these pistols are even around today.

I for one will look for the missing K-Dates and will always consider an upgrade to an original. Even so, the restored K-Dates are still worth a pretty penny, at least IMHO!!!

09-11-2004, 01:03 PM	#15
Frank RIP Patron LugerForum Patron Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Hot & Dry PHX, AZ Posts: 2,078 Thanks: 24 Thanked 164 Times in 87 Posts	Jerry, I could not agree with you more. There were about 11000 K-Dates produced, give or take a few. I know there are at least six variations (Still says 5). There are only about 1700 1st Variations. There many are fewer transition between the 1st an 3rd Variation. So if you can get any of these pistols, in whatever condition (at a price commenserate with the condition) it may be worth considering. As an example, Simpson's Limited is advertising a "mint" 1st Variation Rig for $13,500 Thor has restored two of my K-Dates. The first was a 1st Variation pitted mess, but totally matching, except the magazine. The condition was so poor, Thor had to have the WaA Marks re-established, along with several proof marks. The second was a 3rd Variation, again all matching, except the magazine, that someone had "sanded or polished down" the receiver and cold blued that part. Thor established the position of the WaA Marks and had the engraver duplicate them. I firmly believe that the restoration will always be obvious, but the pistol is as close as possible to the condition in which it left the factory. I wish that I could get all these variations in mint condition, but no one knows how many of these pistols are even around today. I for one will look for the missing K-Dates and will always consider an upgrade to an original. Even so, the restored K-Dates are still worth a pretty penny, at least IMHO!!!