New owner of 1913 P08

[Porta]

Originally Posted by Norme

Hi Matt, A hold-open is a device which holds the breech block back after the last shot has been fired. It was omitted from early military Lugers (to save money), but many guns were later retrofitted with it. Bohler steel is not superior, it's just different and rather uncommon. Regards, Norm

Norm,
Well, I haven't fired it yet. Only had it a few days now (during which time its been stripped apart twice, cleaned, polished and generally subjected to close examination and near-religious awe )

To your point about a hold-open device:

I'm sure this is a rookie statement, but have noticed that the toggle will remain open when an empty mag is in place and the action is worked. Removing the mag at this point will allow me to pull back slightly on the toggle and it will then release forward to seat home.

Oh, one other observation:
With an empty mag in place, you may move the toggle back about (ummm) 30deg and it clicks and stays. With a slight push down, it seats home into the breech with a rather nice slap/clunk. I assume this is to allow the firer to attempt a "refire" on a dud round??

Many thanks to all replies - your knowledge is recognised and appreciated.