1903 Springfield Armory tests

In the recent past, I examined an interesting Luger which I suspect was involved in the July 1903 US tests at Springfield Armory. It is an old model, dished toggles, long frame with a 4 3/4 " fat 9mm barrel. It has about 60% of well used original finish but is in perfect mechanical condition otherwise with a quite good bore. The serial number is in the 10000B prototype series and is 10028B. There are no markings anywhere except for the all matching serial numbers in the commerical manner and the DWM script on top of the toggle. The number 28 on the grip safety has been engraved rather then stamped.


It is stated in a letter dated July 2, 1903 by Colonel Frank H. Phipps (I really can't read the spelling of the last name), Ord. Dept. that 3 pistols were used with 3 different barrel lengths - 3 7/8, 4 11/16, and 5 13/16 - in order to test the different velocities from each barrel. I suspect that 10028B may be the 4 11/16 inch example. Two other examples in existance, 10030B, 4 3/4" barrel and 10031B 5 7/8 " barrel have also been tied to the trials by letters from Springfield Armory which came along with 10030B when it was purchased from the Armory many years ago. Could the 3 guns have had back-ups?


I have only seen photos of 10030B and it appears in rather fine condition, unlike a gun which had been vigorously tested. Maybe 10030B has been refinished. Anyone know? Any comments on 10028B's participation in the trials would be greatly appreciated.


Ciao,


Bill S. (ALFA2NINE@aol.com)