My first post and first Luger; 1936 S/42

[Short Round]

I got a S&W 19 from a friend's freind's Father In Law. Just as I was about to walk out the door the FIL asked me if I might also be interested in a Luger. I was but I was afraid of what it might cost me. All I had for starters was it was a S/42 in a shoulder holster and it was rough. He'd bring it up next trip.

I did a bit of research so as to not be a complete dolt. It was kind of like cramming for finals when you skipped class too much.

I got to see it today and purchased it. It wasn't as rough as he was indicating. Fair wear and tear from some use.

Serial number 5708n, mostly matching so far except magazine and grips. I did not check the firing pin yet. Bluing is pretty good with some wear on the muzzle end and the usual high spots on the left side cover and the receiver rail on the right. Doesn't look reblued to me. Still has maching marks in the ears and the toggle is bright blue. Straw parts are still nicely colored. There was a touch of old rust on the frame heel but no pits. Grip screws were rusty at one time too. Oddly I think the grip screw slots are different blade thicknesses but one has some screwdriver dings.

Worst part is the right grip panel is cracked about 1 inch or so coming up from the screw. Upon further review I believe it's because somewhere along the line someone put grips on it that fill too tight. They might be commercial grips. They have matching stamps of 92 and the left has a Z and a W the right bears an N and a W. Also has a stamp I can't make out, something with a crown perhaps or an arrow.

The magazine doesn't match (BTW mag is blue steel with alum butt sn 6047b, if you have a sn 5908n let me know!)

Well that's my first Luger and I'm not sure if I paid too much or if I paid too little. It was a touch outside of my comfort zone but I've wanted one for a long time but never made it a priority.

Here's some pictures if I can get this right..