New member looking for information

[mrerick]

Hi Adam, and welcome to the forum.

We can certainly help you here.

Some initial things to consider.

A Luger is considered collectible if it is all matching and in original factory state (finish, etc). The closer to that, the better. Mismatched parts on most Lugers make it a "shooter" unless it's particularly rare or sought after.

For that reason, never consider shooting a collectible Luger since breaking parts (which happens regularly) will reduce its historic and financial value quite a bit.

If you disassemble your Luger, be particularly careful about the left grip panel. Many of these get broken up by the safety lever. You just barely lift it off the screw area before sliding it down and away from the top of the frame.

Do not store it or the magazines or the tool inside the holster. This can cause corrosion due to the tanning process chemicals that may be residual in the leather and moisture it can attract. Keep them separately.

As mentioned, pictures in closeup and sharp focus are needed to help you identify things. Take them in shaded sunlight, and don't use the flash. Use the closeup setting on a digital camera, and post them with at least 1024 pixels across. Use a tripod and the self timer to eliminate camera shake. Plain backgrounds are best.

One member here collects "bring back" stories. Consider contributing your story to him. Also check your grandfather's papers to see if he kept the paperwork authorizing him to return to the USA with his war relic.

Many members here have studied Lugers and their markings for many years. You've come to the right place. One warning, Lugers can be addictive.