Halo around numbers ?

mrerick · 03-11-2017, 10:05 AM

Rust blued pistol barrels were often numbered after assembly and finishing. While the manufacturing process engineering was different at the various manufacturers and in different eras, the process at DWM, Erfurt and Mauser (to 1937) didn't number the barrel until after finishing on most P.08 pistols. There are exceptions.

When the die stamp is driven into the steel metal surface, it causes the metal around the places where the die compresses the steel to stress. This causes stretching and makes the surrounding surface finish more diffuse. This makes the bluing look lighter, and thus like a "halo". Close inspection with a microscope or eye loupe will let you see the effect yourself. There are a couple of photos in the FAQ.

03-11-2017, 10:05 AM	#3
mrerick Super Moderator - Patron LugerForum Life Patron Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Eastern North Carolina, USA Posts: 3,920 Thanks: 1,377 Thanked 3,135 Times in 1,518 Posts	Rust blued pistol barrels were often numbered after assembly and finishing. While the manufacturing process engineering was different at the various manufacturers and in different eras, the process at DWM, Erfurt and Mauser (to 1937) didn't number the barrel until after finishing on most P.08 pistols. There are exceptions. When the die stamp is driven into the steel metal surface, it causes the metal around the places where the die compresses the steel to stress. This causes stretching and makes the surrounding surface finish more diffuse. This makes the bluing look lighter, and thus like a "halo". Close inspection with a microscope or eye loupe will let you see the effect yourself. There are a couple of photos in the FAQ. __________________ Igitur si vis pacem, para bellum - - Therefore if you want peace, prepare for war. Last edited by mrerick; 03-11-2017 at 04:35 PM.