Unfired Luger???

[mrerick]

Nice looking Mauser Luger.

The grips could have been chemically stripped of original finish.

Show pictures of the backs of the grips.

Perhaps they are a lighter wood like beech?

Otherwise, it doesn't look like it's been messed with, and perhaps only has a bit of high edge wear.

[Dlxkey]

Originally Posted by mrerick

...The grips could have been chemically stripped of original finish.

Show pictures of the backs of the grips.

That's sorta what I was suspicious of, and curious if anyone could tell me what an original, pristine finish (or lack thereof) would've been.
These babies are so raw, and the checkering so sharp, that the first couple days the web of my hand got a little irritated after fondling the gun.
After a couple of weeks of taking it out to admire it every night I noticed the oil in my skin was beginning to darken the wood. So now I avoid handling the gun by the grips, or wear a glove.
If they have been stripped - and therefore ruined - I would just as soon put something akin to the appropriate finish on them for protection. ...Until I find out I won't mess with them.

Here's the pic's:
Note that on the right side only the "8" appears - clocked at a 90dg angle to the "78" on the left grip (unusual?). Upon close inspection it's clear that the 8 was punched at an extreme angle. Makes me suspect (if the grips are original) that the "8" could've bottomed out before the "7" could make contact.

Tell me what you think:

Grip Backs.jpg