Old War Trophy

[JeffB]

Greetings all!

This is my first time here and the first post.

I've had an old P08 that was a WWII bringback from my stepDad for about 25 years. Last year he decided to make it "officially" mine. (Thanks again!!) He brought it back with a case of 2000 rounds - the steel cased, sintered material projectile type. When I got it, there were 8 cartridges left. I shot one "just 'cause" and about 150 Win. factory rounds with no problems. then I met a knowledgeable collector who suggested that I never shoot it again. I haven't.

It is a 1916 Erfurt model - pretty common, I've heard. ALL serial #s except the magazine match - and it's 101 numbers higher than the gun, which has a 3 digit #. It has "the-triggerpull-from-Hell" and since it was rescued from a stream, has surface rust over all the outside - excepting the innards. The surface rust is only noticeable at less than 5 ft. It was obviously well maintained with oil before its bath. Also, the bore is LIGHTLY pitted, probably due to the dunking after being shot with the old style corrosive primers, powder or both. Still, in spite of the triggerpull, which is AT LEAST 22 lbs (10 Kg) it shot great when I did shoot it. Mechanically, it's perfect.

I don't know if it's worth much money, but I really don't care - it's a special gun given to me by a real special person.

Some day I MAY be able to post pics, but I'm still learning this confuser stuff. Heck ... I'm over 50, so unlike the kids, it doesn't come naturally.