Had a great time with Thor this weekend and got to see quite a few Lugers. Like Thor mentioned the highlight would have to be the rare variation that we saw and read about. Dieter Marschall wrote about this variation in his book "Handguns of the Armed Organizations of the Soviet Zone & German Demorcatic Republic" where some of the information that I am giving came from. The one that was pictured in his book has a different serial number than the one we saw.
The pistol was a special production made in 1953 at Suhl where they had been refurbishing Lugers. Apparently as a study 100 of these pistols were made to see if it would be feasable to start production of these fine pistols again. Apparently it was not cost effective. These pistols may have been Krieghoff's (calm down John D.
). The serial numbers for these pistols were N1000 to N1100. The "N" meaning "new production". A couple of interesting things about this that you will notice is that the cam ramp is located further back than the average Luger. Also, the take down lever is shaped a bit different. Instead of a circular shape is is in the shape of a D with straight sides. Best way I could explain the description of this. I am unable to recall if this piece had any other markings on it. I am thinking that it may not have. Thor correct me if I am wrong on this.
If any of you would like to see a picture of this I would suggest getting a copy of Dieter's book. Thanks Dieter. Well I need to run. I have more to talk about that we saw at the show. Oh yeah, has any forum member seen this variation before or have any comments on this. Thanks.
Sid.