New to the site and lugers

[4 Scale]

While your questions are understandable, it's very difficult to answer the cost questions precisely because there are so many variables and quality of each matters. Re-blue, underlying condition, grips, bore, which parts match, which year (1917 for example is more common and therefore less costly) - all of these impact price.

On artillery Lugers there is a lower quantity of those available compared to some other categories of Lugers, making the hunt for Artillerys tricker. I've been looking for a mismatched or re-blued artillery for months off and on, in your price range, and I'm still looking. I'm trying to get a feel for the market first, before buying to avoid over-paying but also probably have missed a couple acceptable pistols.

My best guess, after looking at a about a dozen recently, is $1,400 seems to be around the lower end for a mismatched shooter with a fair or better bore and acceptable cosmetics, with up to $1,800 or more as pistol quality (all the factors mentioned above) improves. All matching original finish seems to start around above $1,800 with bore, grips and cosmetics impacting price. I.e. an $1,800 all match/original finish might be that, but will seem 'rough'.

On books, one of our most experienced collectors here recommended "Lugers at Random". I found it fairly easy used at around $50 or so and it is excellent. I just bought the Sturgess book and while it is more ($225 if you shop around) it is a wonderful value.

Good luck in your search.