Should I restore 1941 Luger

[mrerick]

I have only sent one Luger for "restoration". It was a very rare Simson Luger that had been improperly refinished with salt bluing before I acquired it.

Since Luger collectors most highly value a Luger that is as close to original factory state as possible, I now have a good looking Luger with zero original finish.

In addition, the restorer lost one of the original E/6 marked screws in the process. They are literally "unobtainum", and it was only through the grace of a forum member that I got a replacement two years later.

It is doubtful that I'll ever get return of the financial cost of the Luger and restoration work, but I have the satisfaction of returning this one to close to it's factory appearance.

I would not, in general, do this with a Luger. It was only the rarity and it's improper prior refinishing that motivated me to do it.