Trying to learn luger language

[Major Tom]

While browsing thru various threads here I have come upon some terms I don't understand. One poster said he used the "hot pin test' on his side plate. What is that? Another poster was using the word "sneaker pistol". What's that?
Thanks

[mrerick]

Concerning the "hot pin test", check page 15 of the FAQ on bakelite grips...

I don't know what a "sneaker" Luger is, but a "sneak" was one of the Lugers made while Germany was under the terms of the Versailles treaty prohibiting them from making military handguns (except for Simson's production for the 100,000 man Weimar army).

There was considerable "under the table" secret arms production going on when Germany wasn't supposed to be making military caliber guns. Those Lugers are referred to as "sneak" Lugers.

Some of the deception was rather clever. The Versailles treaty specified that inspectors were to go to the arms manufacturer sites and verify that clandestine production wasn't taking place. Documents were required from the manufacturers. A little tweak here or there and inventory seemed to disappear. Sometimes misleading descriptions were used to deflect attention. In the new book on Paul Mauser, some of this is briefly discussed...

I expect that much of the inspection now being done under arms treaties is subject to similar manipulation by some of the parties involved.

[DonVoigt]

Tom,
invest some enjoyable time in reading All of the stickys- from beginning to end.
There is no substitute for doing your "home work".

When I first came here, in addition to the stickys, I read all the posts in each forum, some go back years and run to the 100's.
Sounds strange, but that is the way I approach a new subject, and it gets one up to speed in about 3 months. There is just no substitute for time spent doing the grunt work. It does not all "make sense" at first, but gradually the pieces fall into place.

Much has been said about owning books, but you have pretty much torpedoed that suggestion for yourself. You really could/should consider the dvd of the Sturgess/Goertz book for about $40- even if you have to learn how to use a cd/dvd in your computer- most are capable today.

That DVD would get you a three volume 1800+ page reference book that will answer many questions for you, has great pictures, is engrossing in its detail and history. But it would not explain the "hot pin test", or use of a black light, and some other tricks of collectors.

The search feature of this forum is also a great resource. Many threads contain information about "sneak" lugers; which is a pretty much obsolete and old collector's term.

[Edward Tinker]

well, the 'sneak' term is actually the middle link that is blank. That is what most people think of as a sneak luger, although what Marc said about is also true.

See the FAQ for further information...

[Norme]

Hi Tom,
I second Tom's advice. When I joined this forum, and Jan Still's Gunboards forum, a few years ago, I read through the archived sections that dealt with Imperial Lugers, my particular area of interest. When I say "through" I mean ALL the posts in EVERY thread going back to the very earliest, taking notes along the way. It took me a couple of hours a night for about three months. Bear in mind that I was a collector of many years standing when I joined and already owned most of the Luger reference books that had been published at that time. Nevertheless I found it to be a most enriching learning experience and have never regretted all those "wasted evenings".
Regards, Norm

[Leather Neck]

Originally Posted by DonVoigt

You really could/should consider the dvd of the Sturgess/Goertz book for about $40- even if you have to learn how to use a cd/dvd in your computer- most are capable today.

That DVD would get you a three volume 1800+ page reference book that will answer many questions for you, has great pictures, is engrossing in its detail and history. But it would not explain the "hot pin test", or use of a black light, and some other tricks of collectors.

Don,

Do you know of any place that is offering just the DVD currently? I've searched Simpson's website, but I'm only seeing the DVD in conjunction with the book. Thanks!

-Dustin

[DonVoigt]

I had to call them to buy the DVD; but that was a year or more ago- they may have changed their offering by now.

[sheepherder]

Originally Posted by Leather Neck

Don,

Do you know of any place that is offering just the DVD currently? I've searched Simpson's website, but I'm only seeing the DVD in conjunction with the book. Thanks!

-Dustin

Calling is best; use your credit card to get it quicker. Mine was $35 + $15 S&H; I sent a money order while another member used the CC. He got his three weeks sooner than me.

[Leather Neck]

Thanks!