1917 DMW in 30 Luger

Doubs · 12-25-2020, 05:57 PM

Many thousands of Imperial military Lugers were re-barreled following WW1 for sale in foreign countries - especially the United States - for much needed hard currency. The practice also helped to make use of arms that otherwise would have been destroyed because of provisions imposed by the Allies. Large numbers were re-barreled in .30 caliber. Some had the date scrubbed while others, like yours, did not.

Measured with a cleaning rod from a closed and uncocked breechface to the muzzle, your barrel likely measures 95mm in length.

Looking at your pictures, there isn't much to be determined except that because it's a DWM, it left the factory as an Artillery Luger with an 8 inch barrel. DWM only notched the receivers of guns they made into Artillery models. Your magazine appears to have a wood bottom which is correct.

I have an Erfurt that was done exactly as yours except the date was removed. It is a 100% matching pistol other than the replacement barrel.

If anything like mine, yours will be an excellent shooter.

12-25-2020, 05:57 PM	#2
Doubs User Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Byron, Georgia Posts: 1,736 Thanks: 819 Thanked 1,769 Times in 586 Posts	Many thousands of Imperial military Lugers were re-barreled following WW1 for sale in foreign countries - especially the United States - for much needed hard currency. The practice also helped to make use of arms that otherwise would have been destroyed because of provisions imposed by the Allies. Large numbers were re-barreled in .30 caliber. Some had the date scrubbed while others, like yours, did not. Measured with a cleaning rod from a closed and uncocked breechface to the muzzle, your barrel likely measures 95mm in length. Looking at your pictures, there isn't much to be determined except that because it's a DWM, it left the factory as an Artillery Luger with an 8 inch barrel. DWM only notched the receivers of guns they made into Artillery models. Your magazine appears to have a wood bottom which is correct. I have an Erfurt that was done exactly as yours except the date was removed. It is a 100% matching pistol other than the replacement barrel. If anything like mine, yours will be an excellent shooter.