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SCARCE DWM FINNISH M/08 LUGER SEMI-AUTOMATIC

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:500.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 1,500.00 USD
SCARCE DWM FINNISH M/08 LUGER SEMI-AUTOMATIC
PISTOL. Cal. 9x19mm. S# 8116p. Bbl. 4 11/16". Looking to update their current military sidearm and being unsatisfied with the domestically designed Ahlberg pistol, the Finnish Ministry of Defense went to DWM in hopes of acquiring a contract for the P.08 pistol. DWM, unable to to fulfill this request due to the Treaty of Versailles, could only offer Finland the Model 1920 Commercial Luger chambered in 7.65x21mm Parabellum (.30 Luger). Ultimately, the Finnish Ministry of Defense accepted these Lugers, designating them as the "M/23", with a small number being rebarreled for the 9x19mm cartridge and being designated as the "M/08". This example, an M/08 Luger, is marked with a horizontal Crown/N commercial nitro proof on the right side of the bbl. extension, with the chamber area having been scrubbed. Toggle is marked with the intertwined DWM monogram. Top of the Finnish replacement bbl. is marked with the Tikka logo. Rear grip strap is import marked "PRI GARDEN CITY KS/ P08 9MM GERMANY". Metal components exhibit a Finnish arsenal reapplied dull blue finish overall, save for on the trigger and ejector, which are strawed. Frame is mounted with 2-piece checkered wood grips, the right panel featuring a circular incision previously fitted with a brass Finnish unit identification disc. Luger pattern dovetailed blade front sight with standard V-notch rear sight. No matching numbers are present, with many parts/components being unnumbered and/or unproofed. MAGS: 1 blued steel 8-rd. with black synthetic plug. CONDITION: metal components retain the majority of their Finnish arsenal reapplied blue finish, exhibiting some areas of wear and thinning that are fading to gray patina, scattered superficial handling marks, as well as scattered spots and patches of light surface oxidation overall. Trigger and ejector retain fair amounts of their straw finish, showing light pitting and some spots of age related discoloration. Bright bore, exhibiting some streaks of light pitting, while retaining strong rifling throughout. Proper manual mechanics. Grips show smoothing, as well as scattered marks and impressions from handling and storage, but otherwise remain sound. (25-6051/MLW). CURIO. $1,000-1,500.