G Luger re-straw ?

[Bill Sipple]

Well my original topic was strawing and you guys answered that, but now I'm more than just a bit interested in the "42" on the toggle versus the "S/42" which was on all old "G" Lugers. Did some digging and found a "supposedly" matching serial number "G" Luger with only "byf" on the front toggle, that had been sold at auction. So here are 2 possibilities for you experts to ponder:

First, we know my Luger was refinished. Apparently Mauser did take some guns in and refinish them in the early 40's. So a factory refinish ? This would explain the factory-quality numbering on the "replacement" toggle, and maybe also the loss of straw, since after 1937 Mauser quit strawing Lugers. Also, Mauser was using "42", "S/42" and "Mauser" banner after 1937, and "byf" after 1941.

Second, could it be a case of a "42" toggle straight from the factory, for a few guns ? Reason I ask is that it turns out that Mauser was given permission to use "42" in addition to "S/42" beginning of 1936. I know Lugers are notorious for oddball markings and production. Is it possible my "G" was made near the end of the year and so wound up with a toggle from the next production ?

Or it could be faked ! But if so, its a terrific job. I'm going with the Mauser factory refinish theory for now.

Thanks again for all your help. My next step is to get close-up photos of the various stampings and proofs. This might help. I can barely see them with my 60 yo eyes, even with reading glasses.