Mystery Luger

[Ron Smith]

Hi Tom,

Without seeing a photo, I believe that the 10.18 is a Weimar Reichswehr provisional mark, or a Stab (staff) mark.

Provisional marks were added to show which Regiment the pistol belonged to prior to it's being issued to a company or detachment.

As in 10th Regiment weapon #18. When it was issued to the company. The company designator would be stamped on it. For example... 4. / J.R. 10. 18., for 4th Company / Infantry Regiment 10. weapon #18.

If it's a Stab "Staff" mark. It would be left as is for use by the command staff( clerks, communications people, etc.) as the need arises. I would think that yours is a "Stab" marked luger since it was never issued to a company or detachment.

Stab pistols usually exibit a better overall finish due to lack of use. However, yours was obviously re-issued and could have had considerable use from WWI , Weimar and through WWII.

It gets confusing at times. Hope I made this clear enough?

Welcome to the forum.

Ron