[John D.]

If you are serious about purchasing a Kreig - I would recommend you read as much as you can - and ask a lot of questions!! If there is any doubt about subtle proofs/marks - simply ask on this Board...


While a few dealers know what they have - many do not know the values nor what to look for. Recently, a "noted" dealer had an "excellent - all matching" Krieg - which I called on. I asked him to dis-assemble it while I was on the phone - and tell me what proof marks he saw on the small parts. In the final analysis - two of the small parts were NOT correct and were obvious replacements, and I informed him of that during that conversation. His reply was "so what - someone who doesn't know what to look for will buy it for that price - ALSO, since it's a consignment piece, so I don't have to tell them." Huh??? I've never bought an HK from that "dealer"...


So, be SURE of what the HK years are supposed to have for marks/proofs, etc. - it could save you thousands of dollars. Most notable "fakes" are side-frame and back-frame inscribed and parts guns with an HK toggle. Rigs are also difficult to judge about what is "correct" and what is not...


Anyway - if you would like my opinion of who are "quality dealers" of Kriegs - feel free to e-mail me off this Board. Further - if you find an HK you are considering - please drop me an e-mail off-line with any questions you may have - and I'll try to walk you through what to look for...


Yep, I understand the "romance" of Krieghoffs, and also agree the KU's are not in the same category - but that would be my personal opinion...