1945: The French Occupy Mauser and Make Lugers
This guide details the post-WWII production of the P.08 Luger by the French at the Mauser factory. It covers the historical context of the occupation, the restart of production using existing German parts and labor, and key identifying features of these unique firearms, including barrel length, caliber, receiver markings, and specific proof stamps like 'WR' and 'BH'. The pistols' service history in Indochina and subsequent use by the French Gendarmerie are also highlighted.








