Review of deactivated 1939 P08 Luger

[wrongplanet67]

Does everything look as it should? Any flaws? Many thanks for your expert opinion!
In any case, the background of the pictures looks convincingly original.

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[phild]

The basic pistol looks correct except for the sideplate. It is either a reproduction or heavily altered original. I admit that I do not know the etiquette when evaluating deacts. I glean from reading posts of those who seem well versed on them that things like matching numbers and original finish are relevant data points in determining valuation but for me the deact aspect would far overshadow everything else. As a Luger however this is a real one.

[itchyjoe]

It's a parts gun since all serial numbers don't match, but I'm sure you know that. S/42 is the Mauser factory stamp and the 655-655-eagle on the barrel are Mauser military proofs, so correct. There were 123,500 made in 1939 so not a rare piece. The mag looks like a wooden bottom and isn't correct for your gun; they're WW1 era production mostly, though I think some police mags were made with wood bases into early 30s. The grips look to be in great shape compared to the rest of the gun. Still it's an authentic piece and surely has an amazing history! It doesn't look re-blued from your pics which is a good thing.

[wrongplanet67]

Thanks guys! Yes, in Belgium and Europe in general only deactivated guns are available if you're not actively in a shooting hobby.

It's good to know that the side plate isn't as it should be and that the magazine also isn't correct for a WW2 Luger.

Very useful info, I think I'll wait for another opportunity.

[Johnny Peppers]

While the receiver has the correct E/655 acceptance marks and Nazi style eagle proof, the breechblock has the earlier Weimar style firing proof. It appears to be totally made up from mis-matched parts, if that matters.

[wrongplanet67]

While the receiver has the correct E/655 acceptance marks and Nazi style eagle proof, the breechblock has the earlier Weimar style firing proof. It appears to be totally made up from mis-matched parts, if that matters.

Another reason to wait for a better P08.

[Todd Holmes]

Gun control is People control.

[wrongplanet67]

Gun control is People control.

Let’s agree to disagree.

[aziz_1_sa]

wait for a better option with matching serial numbers if you can

[itchyjoe]

Out of curiosity, how are these deactivated?

[wrongplanet67]

I fear that since 2018 all moving parts are welded together, holes are drilled in the barrel and on top of that welded bars block the barrel. You cannot insert a round into the barrel or loading mechanism. The round magazine is also welded and cannot be removed. You cannot even "dry shoot". The gun has only a sad decorative function.

With inactivation before 2018 the barrel is blocked and you cannot insert a round, and I suppose a few essential parts are removed from the mechanism, but overall the moving parts work and one can "dry shoot" and remove and reinsert magazines. I have such an ex-Norwegian army K98k, rebarreled to Nato round size, but with German numbers, stamps and WaA codes still present.

We have to thank our bearded terrorist friends for this sad evolution, because of the bombing attacks they made in Europe (and Belgium) a few years ago.

At least, if I would want, I can fire my 17 mm black powdered French Napoleonic Dragoon rifle. If I practice well, I should be able to fire upt to 3 rounds per minute, but the rifle could ofcourse also explode into my face.

[itchyjoe]

Very sad, thank you for the detailed description!

[Pel992]

I have this model (no deact), the same construction year, the only difference is without the "S" before the "42", you have a good one from ww2.
The P08 is a jewel, it is a sacrilege to deactivate it.

[stevezz1]

I would definitely hold out for a better example.
There seems to something odd under the take-down lever as well, is that a weld....?

[Gary Symonds]

It's your loss that Belguim has no Second Amendment "Right to Keep and Bear Arms."

I'm sure when the "Bearded" guy attacks with his operable firearm, since he does not care about firearm laws to begin with, you can scare him off with this de-balled 1908.