Portuguese M2 question

[Ron Wood]

I would say that they are M2 not navy Lugers. I know that some of the navy holsters with the attached shoulder strap were made for the 120mm barrel length (I have one) so I do believe that some portion of the 1908 M2 Lugers were transferred to the Navy for marine/ground assault units. Just my opinion, no documented evidence other than photos and holsters.

[kurusu]

Originally Posted by Ron Wood

I would say that they are M2 not navy Lugers. I know that some of the navy holsters with the attached shoulder strap were made for the 120mm barrel length (I have one) so I do believe that some portion of the 1908 M2 Lugers were transferred to the Navy for marine/ground assault units. Just my opinion, no documented evidence other than photos and holsters.

That could very well be (the holsters in the pictures do indeed look too long for the navy lugers). But I fail to see the reason why they would equip themselves with army models in a different caliber than their own pistols. It would make sense for logistic reasons since they were operating with the army, but the rifles/carbines that can be seen in the hands of sailors are kropatscheks. The army was using the Mauser-Vergueiro by then. So ammunition compatibility doesn't seem to be the issue.

It's frustrating to say the least.

And I'm getting off my own topic.

And found another picture.

[kurusu]

There is a possible explanation for the serial numbers above 3500.

In a perfect world there would be 3500 pistols numbered 1 to 3500. But, a number of pistols would likely fail the production tests and others could even have been rejected on arrival, the circled triangle acceptance mark must mean something afterall , so in order to fullfill a 3500, contract the serial numbers may run higher than 3500, but there must be some gaps in between.

Off course I've not a shred of evidence to support this.