Reworking first Luger

I just purchased my first Luger- a 1915 DWM. The numbers all match, except the magazine. The gun has been poorly reblued sometime in its past. It is an excellent shooter, however I would like to restore it back to some of its former glory. I would like to perhaps reblue it, restaw it, etc. Can you give me some advice as to where I can get information to do the job properly. I have tried to follow some of the links for strawing, however it says that the link cannot be followed. Does information exist that tells step by step the exact methods and specifications used at the factory.


I also have noticed from the pictures that some of the reworks have manufacturer labels, safety, numbers, etc., highlighted in white or gold. Which is the proper color, and what exactly was originally highlighted by the factory. What is used to highlight the labels, etc. Any help is appreciated. Thanks

Jeff: Email Art Buchanan @ [email protected] and he will give you all the necessary help possible. He has about 40 years experience and is wonderful to work with.

[Don]

Jeffrey,


I'd suggest you take a look at Dok's gun, the "Jewel," which is of course the Luger of the Month. It's an example of the bluing and strawing done by one of our forum members, Ted Green (Thor). Then browse through the photos in the owner's corner, especially Ted's, for additional examples of his artistry. Then find you way to Ted's website -- Ted's Luger Strawing Service. Ted is a master craftsman/artisan who will return your piece to its original condition -- or even improve on it if you request the fancy rework! I have just received one of my guns, a 1915 artillery, back from Ted, and it's magnificent! And his prices are ridiculously low. (Hope he's not reading this thread.)

[BILL]

There are many people who specialize in different facets of Luger restoration who frequent this forum. They are located in the 'Resources Links' section to the left of the message board. I know some folks like to do all their own work but the learning curve for rebluing is stiff and there are hidden costs associated with it. As for rust bluing, I do know that it takes time, practice and skill (not to mention the equipment). Many gunsmiths are reluctant to even offer this service anymore.

[BILL]

Don, (shhhh..don't tell Ted that his prices are too low..ah, too late now)! Are you going to post a pic of that arty? And you are right about Ted's restorations coming out like factory new. His rust blues are a true item of beauty (especially in bright natural light).

[Don]

Yeah, I know I need to post the photos. I'm really proud of the gun, but I haven't taken any pix yet-- and downloading them to my computer is really slow, etc. The way I'm going these days, it may well be after the Holidays!

[lugerholsterrepair]

Jeffery, You should really consider the help of a professional like Ted for a complete restoration. You will be delighted with the results and it will improve the value of your 1918 considerably to have the correct rust blue applied. I have talke about strawing at length here on the forum and for the most part this is not something to be undertaken by the average joe as most of the results are in the preperation. When restoring a valuble WW1 Luger it cannot be left in better hands than Ted Green. Jerry Burney

[Lonnie Zimmerman]

Jeff; I agree with all of the above. I just had Thor do a restoration on a K-date Luger. There were only about 10,000 made in 1934, so you can see I wouldn"t turn it over to just anyone.


Lonnie

[Thor]

It is a labour of Love, I would rather do the restorations that almost anything! I very very apreciate greatly all the nice comments from my clients and new friends! Thanks guys, this is my best Christmas present! Hope yours is great too! Thor~~~

[Luke]

Being the proud owner of one of Thor's restorations, I have to tell you; it is a thing of beauty. Mine is a 1937 shooter with a 6" barrel which was expertly installed by Hugh Clark, and it looks so good I am almost afraid of exposing it to live ammunition. IMHO Thor's restorations will one day be collectable in and of their own right.

[Big Norm]

[Thor]

Jeffrey, since my website is down, I emailed you some examples of my work with before and after examples. Thor

[Dok]

As the owner of the Luger of the Month this month (and a Ted Green rework) I can also say how pleased I am. I should however point out that my rework is not a restore to "factory original". If I had been starting with a pistol with all matching numbers and in good condition except for a reblue, then I would have opted for the rust blue, and not done the gold highlighting etc.


Original finish for your model was rust blue, and the only item that was highlighted was the "Gisichert" under the safety lever was painted white. Ted can restore your Luger to "factory original" and it will be a joy forever.


Dok