My First Luger

[w2ec]

First off, as a new luger owner, my thanks to those of you who have put this outstanding web page together!!! I believe it has already answered most of my questions and my first post here is more to validate what model I think my Luger is. Of course I'd also appreciate a rough idea of its value if anyone would care to offer an opinion. I realize that is a very difficult question and just looking for a range it might fall in. I bought it as a shooter so would appreciate any advice, I'm guessing this is a fairly common model so shooting it will not detract from its value.

I believe what I have is a 1920 Commercial. It appears to be in all original condition with some small blemishes / very minor pitting. Other than that there is almost no apparent wear to the bluing. The serial number is 8289L (can it be dated from the serial number?). Every small part on the pistol that contains a number has the last two digits 89 so it would seem to be all matching numbers. The magazine has the wood grip but I can find no number on the magazine. The caliber is 7.65/30 Luger. The grips are solid and in good shape but could use some cleaning. The right grip shows some distinct discoloration blotches. According to the person I received this from, it has been sitting in a drawer on its right side on a cloth for about the last 40 years. On the right side of the frame, stamped upside down, appear to be the words MADE IN GERMANY. Actually, the stamping is faint and only MA ----- ERMANY is clear enought to be certain. The only other markings are the typical (for the 1920 Commercial model as I understand it) serial numbers on frame and bbl, two digit numbers on parts, proof marks, DMW logo on toggle, and saftey indication. From what I can tell, the barrel/frame witness marks are perfectly aligned which leads me to think the barrel has not been removed/altered. Bore seems to be clean with good sharp lands/grooves.

I'd appreciate any comments on this pistol!

I've created an album and trying to add pictures from it below, hope they come out.

http://forum.lugerforum.com/album.ph...&pictureid=599

http://forum.lugerforum.com/album.ph...&pictureid=600

http://forum.lugerforum.com/album.ph...&pictureid=601

http://forum.lugerforum.com/album.ph...&pictureid=597

http://forum.lugerforum.com/album.ph...&pictureid=602