Abercrombie & Fitch Luger

Published on July 22, 2019
Duration: 9:44

This guide details how to identify a rare Abercrombie & Fitch Luger P08, focusing on specific markings, manufacturing details, and construction differences compared to standard models. Expert analysis from Ian McCollum and Brad Simpson highlights key features like the 'Made in Switzerland' barrel stamp, stepped front sight ramp, Swiss cross, and reinforced frame, crucial for distinguishing authentic pieces from reproductions. The information is vital for collectors and historians interested in unique firearm contracts influenced by post-WWI regulations.

Quick Summary

The Abercrombie & Fitch Luger P08 is distinguished by specific markings like 'ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO NEW YORK MADE IN SWITZERLAND', a stepped-back front sight ramp, a Swiss cross on the chamber, and a reinforced rear frame well. These features, along with Swiss assembly due to post-WWI treaty restrictions, set it apart from standard Lugers.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Abercrombie & Fitch History & Luger Order
  2. 01:161922 Luger Order & Treaty Restrictions
  3. 02:22Swiss Workaround: DWM & Hammerli Collaboration
  4. 03:43Original A&F Holster Examination
  5. 04:39Identifying Authentic Markings & Holsters
  6. 05:18The Crucial Front Sight Ramp Detail
  7. 06:42Finish and Serial Range Analysis
  8. 08:12Definitive Feature: Reinforced Rear Frame Well

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Abercrombie & Fitch Luger P08 unique compared to standard models?

The Abercrombie & Fitch Luger P08 is unique due to specific markings like 'ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO NEW YORK MADE IN SWITZERLAND', a stepped-back front sight ramp, a Swiss cross on the chamber, and a reinforced rear frame well, distinguishing it from standard DWM production.

How did the Versailles Treaty affect the production of the Abercrombie & Fitch Luger?

The Versailles Treaty prohibited German manufacture of barrels over 100mm. For the Abercrombie & Fitch contract, this meant DWM produced frames in Germany while Hammerli in Switzerland manufactured the 120mm barrels and completed final assembly.

What are the key visual identifiers for authenticating an Abercrombie & Fitch Luger?

Key identifiers include the 'Made in Switzerland' barrel marking, a stepped-back front sight ramp (not flush), a Swiss cross sunburst on the chamber, and a reinforced ridge at the rear of the frame well, which is absent on standard Lugers.

What is the estimated value difference between an authentic A&F Luger and a standard Luger P08?

An authentic Abercrombie & Fitch Luger is estimated to be worth around $12,500, significantly more than a standard Luger P08, which typically commands a price of approximately $2,500.

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