$650 to spend - what luger?

[vern]

I would like to obtain a military luger and have about $650 to spend. I do not want one of the Russian rework "shooters". What can I reasonably expect to find available in that price range? One I saw recently is a 1918 dated 1914 military DWM, 50% blue, matching but with wrong magazine, for $525. Should I jump at this? Finally, I read "Lugers at Random" to prepare myself. Are there other books I should be reading. I'm glad I found this site...I've been interested in getting a luger for some time.

Thanks, Vern

[John Sabato]

Try Tom Heller and Ralph Shattuck's to see what is available in that price range.


Check out the links and resources page from the left frame.


Best of Luck and welcome to the Luger addiction group.

[John D.]

For your first Luger - it maybe better to go with someone who will care about developing your interest (addiction??) rather then selling you something that you will regret later. What I mean by "regret", specifically is a Luger that is faked, forged or otherwise not worth what you are spending. With reputible dealers (Ralph, Tom, and others who may be referenced in this Forum) - yes, you do pay a small premium over what you might be able to buy "sight unseen" over the Internet - or even at a gun show - but frankly, IMNSHO - their expertise is priceless..


As for books - unless you are specialized in particuliar mfg./era, etc. - Still, Kenyon and numerous others have fairly comprehensive editions available. It's probably best to acquire a more expansive edition coverage at first - then as your addiction increases, narrow your book selection to your specific interests...


Oh - and Welcome to this Board!!!

[Frank]

Make sure that you stress you want a non-import shooter. You might want to rethink the non-import requirement. There are some pretty nice imported Lugers around, if you talk to the right people. I picked up a pretty nice one for $500. Good Luck and let us know how you make out.

[vern]