Trigger styles and a general question

[k38]

Hello,

I have had many handguns in my life, but never a luger. First question: I see two trigger styles, the large trigger that extends well forward in the trigger guard, and a more conventional trigger. What is the significance of this variation? What is the proper nomenclature?

Second question: I'd like to buy a luger that looks pretty good, but that I can shoot. Is this an impossible quest? If not, are there particular models I should look for? Some years ago I read that the 1920 Commercial was the one to look for if you wanted a shooter, but I'd like to avoid .30 cal if possible.

Thanks,
Bill

[k38]

No way to post pics; the difference seems very obvious, wish I could explain it better. It's a pretty significant variation. The first one I refer to kinda loops forward and sort of half encircles the trigger finger; the other does not. Sorry I can't be clearer.

[DavidJayUden]

K:
I don't mean to be obstinate, but I can't think of much variation in Luger triggers. All of mine closely resemble one another and could probably be interchanged. Perhaps you can send a link to some photos?
dju

[k38]

I wish I could explain this better! I see what looks like a "shortened" (for want of a better word) trigger on most of the Mauser lugers imported by Interarms in the 1970's---but I ***think*** I've also seen this trigger on some pre-war models as well.

[k38]

Yes, it does, but that seems to be the exception rather than the rule; for example, most of the Interarms guns on GB seem (unless I'm just looking at them wrong!) to have the "shorter" trigger. Dunno, maybe I'm just imagining things.

[k38]

A good pic of what I'm seeing or imagining is on Guns America: if you search "Interarms Luger," a 6" .30 cal comes up and ***seems*** to illustrate what I'm talking about.

Edit: I can post a link if it's allowed on this forum.

[k38]

https://www.gunsamerica.com/94077804...uger-in-30.htm

Here's the trigger I'm talking about.

[DTR04]

That trigger is a Swiss M29 trigger. The M29 was mainly changed to make manufacturing less expensive.

[k38]

Thanks much, DTR04. This has been driving me nuts! Do you know when this M29 trigger was first used? Only on some Swiss models, I assume?

Bill

[DTR04]

Originally Posted by k38

Thanks much, DTR04. This has been driving me nuts! Do you know when this M29 trigger was first used? Only on some Swiss models, I assume?

Bill

Approx 1933-1947

[k38]

Thanks! After your ID as the M29 trigger, I was able to find some pics of both triggers; the original trigger seems to be called the 06 "Wrap-around" trigger.

[ithacaartist]

Well, that explains why it is the "half-trigger" on my Interarms Mauser--it is the Swiss frame, '29/70. It looks like the trigger on the .30 Luger Mauser Parabellum in the picture linked above--except mine is 9mm, with a different profile barrel. I am embarrassed somewhat that I'd never noticed! I'm going to check now to see if the Mauser P.08 style frame has the appropriate trigger...

*edit* Yup, the trigger configuration matches the frame style! Interarms Mauser P.08 triggers look "normal".

[Lugerdoc]

The Swiss model Interarms Parabellum also uses the M29 style trigger. The only other different type trigger that comes to mind, is the thin M1900 trigger. TH

[alanint]

And let's not forget the unique trigger profile of the .45 ACP test Lugers!

[4 Scale]

Originally Posted by k38

Second question: I'd like to buy a luger that looks pretty good, but that I can shoot. Is this an impossible quest? If not, are there particular models I should look for? Some years ago I read that the 1920 Commercial was the one to look for if you wanted a shooter, but I'd like to avoid .30 cal if possible.

There are certainly Lugers that fit your quest description, the question is price. IMO 4" barrel 9mm Lugers, made by DWM and then Mauser, with some mis-match of parts are for most people the best solution to the shooter question. The Mauser/Interarms pistols you have already noticed have a reputation as good shooters.

I think you are wise to start with a shooter. Market price between private parties seems to be $800 to $1,100 or so, with cosmetics, bore condition, and which parts match/how many parts match influencing price. You will see many over-priced pistols as you look. Less expensive pistols are out there but tend not to meet your criteria of appearance.

1920 Commercials in .30 Luger, also made by DWM are more plentiful and therefore less expensive.

I got my first Luger about a year ago. I was advised by experienced collectors to buy the book "Lugers at Random" and be patient shopping; it was excellent advice.

[4 Scale]

One other comment Bill, as cosmetics are important to you I wanted to mention re-blued Lugers. Collectors prefer original finish, so re-blued examples are often less expensive and can offer good cosmetics. My own 1938 shooter has a reblued barrel/receiver and is a mix of parts.

[Edward Tinker]

I don't understand the insistence that you can't post pictures?

Are you in prison?

RICH, QUIT DELETING YOUR COMMENTS!