Unit Markings

Heinz · 01-07-2008, 07:06 PM

The u is part of the serial number. The number is 4048u. The numbering system would be xxxxt then xxxxu, 9999t would be followed by 01U The letter series are often referred to as "blocks" The s,t, and u blocks mark the end of the DWM factory production in Berlin. The s block starts in approximately 1929, and is more exactly BKIW production, as the treaty commission had by then forced DWM out of ownership. Your u block was probably produced around 1930 before production was transferred to Mauser in Oberndorf.

Many of the reported u block Lugers have police chahacteristics and Police acceptance numbers. If you look on this forum you will find Dwight Gruber's commercial serial number database which lists several P08s with serial numbers within 100 of yours with police markings.

Your pistol does have a sear safety, a sure indicia of Police use and appears to have a shaved frame front. This may indicate some renumbering but is perfectly acceptable in this part of the u block.

Please do not mount your pistol in a vise to take pictures. Lay it on a piece of paper and use a tripod if you have one.

01-07-2008, 07:06 PM	#21
Heinz User Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Greenville SC Posts: 1,004 Thanks: 377 Thanked 410 Times in 180 Posts	The u is part of the serial number. The number is 4048u. The numbering system would be xxxxt then xxxxu, 9999t would be followed by 01U The letter series are often referred to as "blocks" The s,t, and u blocks mark the end of the DWM factory production in Berlin. The s block starts in approximately 1929, and is more exactly BKIW production, as the treaty commission had by then forced DWM out of ownership. Your u block was probably produced around 1930 before production was transferred to Mauser in Oberndorf. Many of the reported u block Lugers have police chahacteristics and Police acceptance numbers. If you look on this forum you will find Dwight Gruber's commercial serial number database which lists several P08s with serial numbers within 100 of yours with police markings. Your pistol does have a sear safety, a sure indicia of Police use and appears to have a shaved frame front. This may indicate some renumbering but is perfectly acceptable in this part of the u block. Please do not mount your pistol in a vise to take pictures. Lay it on a piece of paper and use a tripod if you have one.