Finals at Luger University

[mackeyms]

Hello all, just paid my tuition to Luger University (which ironically was similar to what my tuition was at SUNY Delhi in the late 70's). Let me please say Thank You to all of the members for sharing the knowledge and experience, hopefully I have put it to good use. I have tried to get a few pictures of my 1915 LP-08. I am to anxious to get something posted to wait until tonight when better photo's can be taken so these will have to do for now, plus it can get some practice with posting pictures. Please let me know if specific photo's are needed.

Ursula (yes that is a reference to "The Blue Max") is all matching including the numbered grips (except for the magazine). I find it hard to believe this firearm has been fired much due to the lack of wear on any of the toggle parts. Also the bore is pristine. Judging by the nice halo's around the serial numbers I am confident that this piece has is original finish and has not been refinished or buffed. So, now for a bunch of questions (thanks again to all of the info that is shared here).

How do you judge the amount of blueing remaining

The straw on the trigger and takedown latch are real strong, but more worn(?) on one side of the magazine release and safety lever

Do I shoot her, I know there are a lot of discussion regard strength of these older firearms. I do not believe this piece was ever exposed to harsh conditions, corrosive ammo etc. When I had the upper cannon stripped down, she sang like a dream when I did a "tuning fork test".

Thanks Mark

[siegersallee]

Let me show my ignorance: What is a tuning fork test?

[alanint]

Originally Posted by siegersallee

Let me show my ignorance: What is a tuning fork test?

The stripped upper receiver forms a "tuning fork" that when gently tapped on a non-marring surface, will ring. Repaired, re welded, cracked or messed with upper receivers are not supposed to "ring".

This is more lore than science, but some people do it.

[Eugen]

Originally Posted by alanint

The stripped upper receiver forms a "tuning fork" that when gently tapped on a non-marring surface, will ring. Repaired, re welded or messed with upper receivers are not supposed to "ring".

This is more lore than science, but some people do it.

I when I learned of this test on Lugers, I had to chuckle. It reminded me of a similar and valid test performed on forged crankshafts for performance engines. If they don't ring when tapped, look for a hidden hairline crack.

[Norme]

Hi Mark,
Congratulations, it looks like you have a very nice DWM Artillery, 1915's are hard to come by. As to shooting it, read this and then decide.
Regards, Norm
http://luger.gunboards.com/showthrea...tillery+Lugers

[DavidJayUden]

I wish I'd known the tuning fork test years ago before I broke the barrel extension on one of my artillery Lugers. Broke in half just behind the chamber, left side.
Personally I'd not make a habit of shooting that one; just too nice. Find another to shoot.
dju

[Ron Wood]

As stated, a 1915 is not frequently available. The one you have found is in better than average condition, probably ranking in the top 10% of surviving examples. It is collection grade and I would be reluctant to shoot it.

[mackeyms]

I guess one of the lessons from Luger U. is to remember what your intending to buy. Originally I was intending to buy a quality shooter, when I was able to make a deal on this for an additional $1,000.00, I bit the bullet.
Here's a few more pictures

[spartacus38]

Smart decision to buy the 1915,nice piece.
Bob

[DonVoigt]

I think you did well to go for the 1915 L P08!

[rhuff]

That is a very nice piece. I am a shooter, but would be reluctant to shoot that one.

[kurusu]

Same here.

[mackeyms]

I was able to get a few more picture off my phone. Thank you all for the kind words.

[Geo99]

Beautiful example of an Imperial Artillery Luger. The only one more scarce is a 1914.

How do you judge the amount of blueing remaining? It is somewhat subjective - one thing I've noticed is Lugers are old and they have their own rating scale that is more permissive than you would use for modern guns. For example some folks will look at faded/tarnished straw or some dull finish and say it's only an 80% gun, but even 99% Imperial Lugers have lighter or faded straw - it's not supposed to look like brass! I like to see some tarnish in the straw - it means it's probably original. I'd say this is at least 95% original finish (probably even higher but I can't see the grip straps), nice grips, no grip chip, uncut sear, all matching - if you got this for under $3000, you did great.

No way is this a shooter. I like to shoot Lugers, but IMO this is just too valuable to shoot (at least on a working man's salary).

- Geo

[cirelaw]

Wow! a prong test! TKS

[Sergio Natali]

Originally Posted by alanint

The stripped upper receiver forms a "tuning fork" that when gently tapped on a non-marring surface, will ring. Repaired, re welded, cracked or messed with upper receivers are not supposed to "ring".

This is more lore than science, but some people do it.

Here we call it a "diapason".

I'm not really an expert on arties, but I would never shoot that Luger!!