bullets and value

I recently aquired a 1939 Luger w/ 1936 holster and tool. It was brought home by the father of a good friend. There are a number of eagles, numbers and dates as described on the web site. (Web site is EXCELLENT!) Until I got it and had a gunsmith inspect it for safety, it hadn't been shot since the Germans had it. All numbers except clips match and show little wear except for blueing worn where it contacts the holster. Clips are extruded aluminum from 1942.

I think its just a typical Luger but in above average condition.


When I shot the gun it was disappointing that it didn't always recock after each shot. I was using cheap ammo for plinking. Is it likely the ammo was simply the problem? If so, what are some good, dependable bullets that shoot well and could be counted on in the slight chance of a defensive need? I doubt I'll shoot it much more, but I want to assure its Ok before I store it.


What is a guess at market value so I can insure it properly?


Also, looking at the "rogue" pictures, is the fellow "RET" sitting in a P-51 Mustang cockpit? Gee, he's got a wide range of interests!


Thanks,


Jim Lee

Clayton, NC

[Marvin]

Hello Jim,


Your 1939 Luger is one of the more common ones available, but very desireable. In 1939, Mauser did make a few changes in the size of the Waffenamt stamps and this is one area that makes the 1939 a very interesting pistol to collect. There were three different sizes usually classes as small, medium and large stamps. Sometimes, there is a combination of sizes during the change from one size to the other. If you are interested, the book by Jan Still, "Third Reich Lugers" is one of the best for all the details on the 1939 and other Nazi era Lugers and their accoutrments.


As to the value of your pistol, it is very difficult without a condition description. From what you describe, it sounds like a 90-93% condition pistol. I would guess that a value on the pistol would be in the $800 range. The holster and tool, if in VG-Exc. condition would sell in the range of approx. $175. If a spare magazine was present, it would sell for approx. $75 in VG condition. This is the going values in my area, maybe others can give you additional info from their areas.


Now, as to the "not cocking" problem. The first thing I would check is the firing pin and the sear catch to see there is any wear at that point so the firing pin is not "catching" on the sear. Second, I would check the sear spring to make sure it is forcing the sear into engagement with the firing pin. Others may have more ideas and they will post them. Good Luck on finding the problem.


Marvin

[Frank]

If the shot casing was successfully ejected, the ammo was probably not the fault. My first guess would be the sear function, either dirty of worn as Marvin suggests.

[Ted]

A Weak sear spring is a common malady, not always the case but in a lot of cases, the problem. Frank is right about the ejection of course, try to fire only one round and see if the hold open engages, if it does every time, the ammo is powerful enough, I image the trigger is not cocking. Actually the toggle action cocks it but the sear is probably not holding it back. A worn sear bar/firing pin interface may be to blame and the firing pin is not being held back. When this happens SOMETIMES the go full auto. DOK's gun did this to me, but the malady was repaired. Ted

[Dok]