What Makes A US Test Eagle...?

[Ron Wood]

Tom,

Thank you for the pictures. The holster is a very good quality reproduction. It was most likely made by El Paso Saddlery. They make perhaps the best reproduction, the pattern for which came from an actual original US Test Trials holster.

The Luger on the other hand is genuine and in very nice condition. The "bruise" on the right grip is caused by the flap closure stud and would indicate that the gun has been carried for an extensive time in a US Test Trials type holster. The mark is consistent with US Test Lugers that I have and have observed. I also believe that the bruise is contemporary with the rest of the Luger and has not been caused by the recent use of the repro holster.

I do not believe your Luger has been reblued, and overall condition is a bit above average for the US Test pieces I have observed, although not in the â??extra specialâ?� category. From its appearance and your description, I think that even though it does not fall into the traditional test serial number range (6100-7100), it most certainly falls into that contentious â??above the rangeâ?� area that is the subject of much debate. It may one day be accepted as a valid US Test Trials Luger.

You have done very well and have certainly received excellent value for your purchase price, perhaps even pulling off a real steal. Only time and collector community consensus will tell.