Magazine maintenance...

[PRD1]

Thank you both for what is undoubtedly good advice and an excellent tutorial!
All of the steps outlined in the procedure for disassembly and cleaning of the Luger magazine seem sound and well-described - and I have the means and materials to do all that G.T. listed. The only step I still have a question about is the re-installation of the follower button so as to stay put, as it is rivetted into the follower (I think), and there may not be enough material left on the end of the stud to re-rivet it soundly on re-installation.
The 3 magazines I want to clean up are externally undamaged, but full of corruption, dead grease, and the like. The possibility of spraying solvent into the magazine to remove as much of the loose and soluble crud had occured to me, but seemed to be a bad idea for the wooden-based mags, and total disassembly seems to be the only way to deal with any internal rust on the walls of the magazine or the follower.
An any case, I am gratified by the spirit of camaraderie and willingness to share information evident among the denizens of the Luger Forum.
I participate in a number of other fora, but being a fairly unsophisticated Luger owner, felt the need of some guidance, which has been freely given.
My own areas of interest are primarily U.S. breechloading military arms, and American single shot rifles, with an occasional flyer on just about anything ever made which goes 'bang!'. I have considerable experience as a barrel maker and custom rifle smith, as well as general gunsmithing, machining and toolmaking, and have always been happy to share whatever I know with anyone who has a genuine interest.
Your assistance is appreciated!
PRD1 - mhb - Mike

[G.T.]

Hi Mike, You'll certainly learn a lot during your quest, but I'm a lot the same... I also like to get a complete understanding of the task at hand... If you are successful at removing the follower button, there WILL be enough of the riveted end left to re-install... the trick to that... is to use aluminum for the anvil part, (to rest the follower button checkered head against), and tape some support spacers along the shell to raise it up just a wee little bit as to allow the follower to float in the tube... Then set the follower on the follower shaft by tapping on the follower itself thru the relief hole first, then set the rivet end with a #2 Stanley nail set, (if short) or a small flat punch (if long or irregular shaped??) One smart shot usually tightens it for life! Let us know how it turns out for you! best to you, and good Luck! til...lat'r.....GT

[G.T.]

Hi to all, this might be a good time to let the member know that when sending me a mag to repair, I usually charge a $35.00 bench fee for each mag. for all necessary repairs less parts, which are extra... If a new wood bottom needs to be installed, then it's $50.00 for all including return postage... Kind'a like tossing in the labor...I repair everything thats within my ability range, and always strive to return a far better mag then started with! I really want to see the members get their monies worth! I've never yet repaired one in under one hour! And, most take me an avarage of 3 or 4 hours ...unless I screw up!, then it's all weekend...... That being said, I really appreciate the support and business that the forum members have afforded me! I've had lot'sa mags sent in for repair recently, and have been at it pretty steady... Thanks to all who have sent me work, and the kind words of support that have followed! Best to all, til...lat'r....GT