Questions for a new Luger owner

[phil.luger]

Thanks for the reply...as I've said, I'm just learning! I tried to take the best pics of the drop down (inside and out) to help you experts figure out how, why and what, got it on this gun...a gunsmith thinks it may be off a Stoeger of the same era...I have not been able to find a pic of a similar representation...or if it was machined...when? who knows!

Again, thanks...I'm attempting to put together the best history of this particular luger, as accurately I can...shoot it every month or so and pass it along in no worse condition! Phil

[Mauser720]

Phil -

This is not a particularly good photograph of a so-called "double date" Luger; however, it does show the "1920" property mark on a 1916 LP-08. I think you can see that no attempt was made to remove the original date of manufacture (1916), and you can also see that the "1920" is more crudely stuck too, which is typical.

This photographs appears elsewhere on this Forum.

You have an interesting 1921 example. Someone who knew what they were doing certainly made a unique take down lever.

Hopefully this contributes to some understanding of the frequently misunderstood "double date" issue.

[phil.luger]

I have fired this gun a couple times now at the range with 50 rounds each time and would really appreciate some feedback! First, the luger is very accurate, much more than I expected and much better than my .380. I do get jams about once every clip. I'm using 115 gr mc. My logic is to keep trying different brands to see which works the best. I would like some info on using 124 gr loads. I know NOT to use the P+. Any help or guidance will be appreciated! Also, does anyone think a repro clip would help (please advise where to get it)...I know the one I have is one (plastic knobs on the bottom) but don't know how old. Thanks for this great site! Phil

[DavidJayUden]

Guys here swear by the Walmart Winchester white boxed 115 gr. FMJ. I reload with some luck and occasionally us Sellar and Beloit with good luck. Mec-Gar makes a good magazine and our own G.T. can provide even better springs for the mag. Those are good places to start.
Oh, don't jam the last round into the mag, and also grip the gun tightly.
Have fun.
dju

[Mauser720]

Phil -

A weak magazine spring will frequently cause a Luger to jam. The toggle action operates so quickly that an old and weakened magazine spring simply can not move the new cartridge into position quick enough. An old spring can become "set" and weakened.

Suggestion: Try using a new Mec-Gar brand magazine and see if this does not cure the jamming problem. These magazine are made in Italy.

You can get them from "Luger Doc" right here on the Forum.

[phil.luger]

I will try the "white box" and I will get a mag from mec-gar... (dumb question...if I search "luger 9mm", are all the same?)

[Mauser720]

Phil -

Winchester is the brand, and it comes in a white box

As David mentioned above, you can get it in Walmart.

This and the Mec-Gar brand magazine should do the trick.