[AGE]

Jack,

I admit that I paid $500 for my '36 Mauser and also bought grips and a couple of magazines. I never like to add up this stuff, but the total for that gun is well below $600. I'm happy with the deal, but others often brag about better deals.

Remember, all of these guns are old-old-old. Mine are 68 (Mauser) and 88 (DWM) years old (but I also shoot 1911 Colts which are at least 76 years old). Neither of the Lugers have perfect barrels; both are decent but have dark bores. Either one may malfunction at any time and I realize that. Since I shoot them, I realize that I may break something, but if it happens I will just replace that part with an unmarked part.

Regarding safety, you can't be too careful. I wouldn't choose either gun for self defense because of their ages and awkward safety. I would never carry one with a loaded chamber. I suppose that there is even a slight chance of a blowup, but I only use relatively mild Wal-Mart Winchester ammo and pray that that won't occur.

Good luck and be careful.