New member seeks help

[SloopJonB]

Greetings,
I'm a new member and complete Luger rookie, but looking forward to learning something of these pistols. Current interests/collectibles include M1 carbines, M1 Garands, S&W Victory and 1911's.

Sorry to start off with such a simplistic question, but can someone give me a very brief idea as to what to look for at first glance when considering a Luger? I have a chance to buy a luger locally, and all I know is that it's a 4", 7.65 mm, DWM in "very good" condition, serial #565x. Would like to have a rough idea as to what to look for before examining this pistol.

Any info as to what markings, numbers, finish etc to look for in assessing originality/condition would certainly help. Also serial number/mfr date ranges.

I appreciate any and all assistance, and will come back with more specific questions if I can get a look at it.

Thanks,
John

[laoshi75]

John,

Welcome to the forum !
I am certainely not the best one here to give you advice, but I believe , IMHO, that the first thing to do is to read and learn before purchasing any item, I presume you are not in a hurry about Luger pistols ? Read the books by J.Still, read the "sticky" threads of the forum. You will find the first answers to your questions. Do not buy a Luger now if you don't know exactly what you want. christian

[policeluger]

JonB....welcome, can you tells us where you live, there may be a member near by who may help you.....

[DavidJayUden]

J:
Tread lightly in the 7.65 Commercial Luger area. Expensive to shoot and re-sale value is not too good. Everyone seems to pay too much for one at one time or another, usually when starting out.
Things to look for? Matching numbers thoughout the gun. Magazine is probably an exception in the case of the Commercial Lugers. And original finish. The value really takes a hit once someone over-buffs and salt blues the old models.
Keep your money close until you read up and ask questions, that's why the forum exists.
Welcome;
DJU

[SloopJonB]

Thank you fellows for the welcome, and the input. I realized from the start that I have a lot to learn about Lugers, and will be cautious about spending good $ without having a much better idea as to what I'm looking at.
I can see that as with other makes & models, there are many willing to share their knowledge and experience. That sure helps all us "newbies", and is very much appreciated. Also am finding a wealth of info just on this site, as well.
If I can get a look at the 7.65 that's for sale, and it looks decent, I'll be back with more questions. In the meantime, thanks to all who responded.
I'm located in Bend, OR. if anyoune happens to be nearby.
Regards,
John

[Lugerdoc]

John, If you want a luger to shoot and learn about the function, an inexpensive 9mm mismatch or rebule is not a bad place to start, rather than taking a chance on line that the more expensive collector grade lugers are as advertise. Once you learn more about them, then that's what to look for at shows or from a dealer who will allow you an inspection with return option. TH

[SloopJonB]

Thanks TH. What you say cerainly makes sense, as to taking a less expensive learning path.

What got me started is a local ad for a 7.65 DWM, supposedly with matching #'s in "very good" condition. The seller is asking $750.00, which seemed (given my lack of experience) to be a reasonable price. Obviously I won't know until I get a look at it, and based on what I see, solicit more info from folks such as yourself.

I'll follow up, hopefully with pics, once I get a look at it.....hopefully this weekend.

Appreciate your response.
John

[SloopJonB]

Got a cursory look at the DWM Luger today, and have attached some pics. From what very little I know, I'm thinking this is a commercial Luger, in 7.65mm, with matching numbers (what I could see...owner would not field strip it).
Overall it seems in pretty nice shape, barrel and feedramp look mint. top of receiver/chamber appears to have been ground down, and the finish is very worn in that area. Owner says it was probably a commercial police pistol and had police markings removed when sold in civilian market??? Balance of finish looked good, but showing holster wear on high points
No number/markings on mag, chip in one grip, and the shoulder stock lug had been removed.
Based on pics (sorry they aren't better, took them in the seller's living room) of condition, markings etc. do any of you gentlemen have any comments/thoughts/suggestions as to the particulars and/or value of this piece. Any wild ball park numbers would be appreciated. Seller wants $750, but with my current lack of knowledge, I'm very hesitant to buy it.
Thanks again for any and all assistance.
Regards,
John

[HuntMaster]

Personally, I would offer $450 for the gun. If it offends seller or he simply says no, I would walk or better yet RUN from this pistol.
Too many shades of blue, not to mention the grinding off of the lug and other ailments visible.
There are far nicer Lugers to be had for the price on this one, IMHO.

Just my .02
Derek

[sheepherder]

Originally Posted by huntmaster

there are far nicer lugers to be had for the price on this one,

+ 1

[DavidJayUden]

I agree. $750 is the "last man out" price on that one. Hold your money close and don't get in over $500. Have you priced .30 Luger ammo. Really not good shooter stuff.
I know the urgency in bringing home the first Luger, but if you hold off a bit for a better gun/price you will love yourself for it in the morning.
DJU

[Ron Wood]

The gun has been ruined and is only a collection of matching parts in a caliber that is expensive to shoot. If you can get it for $450 or so then it is a reasonable deal. Otherwise, spend your $750 on a better 9mm piece to, as Lugerdoc stated, "shoot and learn about the function"

[SloopJonB]

Gentlemen,
Again, I want to thank you all for your input and assistance. You've given me some valuable information concerning this particular pistol, as well as going slow and learning more about these interesting firearms.
I'm definitely passing on this luger, and will start the book and learning process.
The beauty of these forums is the knowledge, experience, and willingness to share of it's members. I very much appreciate all the comments I've received from you all.
Sincerely,
John

[HuntMaster]

John, try going to some larger gunshows in your area. Sometimes they may be a little over-priced, but you can look them over, see the different makes, and check out the finishes/matching of #'s .
The others are right, the 9mm ammo is cheaper and more readily available, but lately I have been able to find 30 ammo in the $20- $24 per box range, and have enjoyed shooting my 30.

Derek

[policeluger]

Run away.............

[Lugerdoc]

John, I believe that you will find some accurately described 9mm shooters in this Forum's For Sale section. TH