British Proofed WWI German Erfurt Luger P08 9mm Semi-Auto Pistol, 1916 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,150.00
LSB#: LSB251207TF025
Make: Royal Arsenal Erfurt frame and barrel extension, DWM toggle train, replacement barrel.
Model: Custom P.08, Luger
Serial Number: 2503c
Year of Manufacture: 1916
Caliber: 9mm Luger (9x19mm)
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Short Recoil, Toggle-Locked, Fed by Detachable Magazine
Barrel Length: 4”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated blade dovetailed to a base integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a “V” notch integral to the rear toggle.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut. The interior of the right panel is marked “03” with Erfurt inspection marks, the left panel has paper spacers obscuring any markings. The grips have even wear and discoloration. There are a few spots of compressed checkers, mostly on the right panel. The right panel has a crack at the top edge near the front. Overall, the grips are in Good-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Refinished. Serial markings on the frame and barrel extension match, the parts of the toggle train match each other, but not the frame. The barrel is a replacement. There is no British proof on the bolt, indicating the toggle train was installed after proofing.
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is infrequent faint erosion and some stubborn fouling in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates about 8/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 80% of its metal finish. The detent spring for the takedown lever is missing. The finish is thinning at most edges. There is scattered light surface oxidation, mostly in the grip areas. There are some scattered spots of surface erosion with some pitting on the toggle train. There are scattered nicks and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads are tool marked with usable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Good-plus condition as customized.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, however the detent spring for the takedown lever is missing. The toggle pin is quite tight. The barrel assembly has no play to the frame, but slides smoothly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: A single unmarked alloy floorplate magazine is included.
Our Assessment: The Luger P08, one of the most iconic pistols in history, was widely used by the German military during both World Wars. This particular example has been customized with an aftermarket barrel and a DWM toggle train installed on its Erfurt produced frame and barrel extension. There are British proofs on the barrel, barrel extension, and frame, but not on the toggle train, indicating that assembly was installed after it was proofed in Birmingham.
The pistol shows wear consistent with its age, but has been given a new finish so it looks pretty good. The new barrel has a strong bore and the parts fit is good, so it should still make for a fun shooter or rewarding restoration project. Please see our high-quality photos and good luck on your bid!
-Bud