Chrome P08

LP08 · 08-15-2002, 04:08 AM

One algorithm (the one I use) for valuing a collectible arm is to identify its value after it would be in a condition you want and then back calculate the dollars it would take to get there.

If your goal is an original looking salt-blued 41byf with walnut grips (it had either walnut or bakelite grips and someone may know which is more likely based on the s/n letter). First, you have to remove the plating (nickel looks like 5 cent pieces--a yellowish white metal; chrome looks shiny and reflective like a car bumper). Then you have to rework the markings if it was buffed before plating. Then you have to salt blue it (some experts out there on salt bluing lugers and it can be done for around $130). Add some good looking grips for about $35-80 and you would have a nice luger worth about $550. Consequently, I have offered $190 for chromed lugers (but I would go to 200). If an incredibly rare luger that was only available as a chromed luger, I might go to the trouble but usually the extensive time and cost required make it a tough buy.

I know a couple other old collectors that use this method and it is pretty quick to apply at a gun show or when at an auction.

I hope that is helpful.

08-15-2002, 04:08 AM	#16
LP08 User Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Colorado Posts: 71 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	One algorithm (the one I use) for valuing a collectible arm is to identify its value after it would be in a condition you want and then back calculate the dollars it would take to get there. If your goal is an original looking salt-blued 41byf with walnut grips (it had either walnut or bakelite grips and someone may know which is more likely based on the s/n letter). First, you have to remove the plating (nickel looks like 5 cent pieces--a yellowish white metal; chrome looks shiny and reflective like a car bumper). Then you have to rework the markings if it was buffed before plating. Then you have to salt blue it (some experts out there on salt bluing lugers and it can be done for around $130). Add some good looking grips for about $35-80 and you would have a nice luger worth about $550. Consequently, I have offered $190 for chromed lugers (but I would go to 200). If an incredibly rare luger that was only available as a chromed luger, I might go to the trouble but usually the extensive time and cost required make it a tough buy. I know a couple other old collectors that use this method and it is pretty quick to apply at a gun show or when at an auction. I hope that is helpful.