Swiss 1929 Simplified Luger (Yes, Swiss and Simplified)

Published on May 15, 2019
Duration: 20:04

This guide details the visual and functional simplifications made to the Swiss Model 1929 Luger compared to earlier versions. It highlights changes in the frame, controls, markings, and materials, as presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. The 1929 model, produced by Waffenfabrik Bern, streamlined manufacturing while retaining Swiss quality, making it a distinct collectible variant.

Quick Summary

The Swiss Model 1929 Luger, produced by WF Bern, incorporated several simplifications for easier manufacturing, including a straight front strap, a shielded grip safety, and reduced checkering on controls. Early models used fragile red Canvasite grips, later replaced by durable brown and black Bakelite. Production ran from 1933-1947, with unique internal date stamps.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and History
  2. 02:41Grip and Safety Simplifications
  3. 05:06Control and Machining Changes
  4. 06:44Markings and Serial Numbers
  5. 08:17Grip Material Evolution
  6. 10:13Private Purchase vs. Military Contracts
  7. 12:469mm Conversions and Deaccessioning
  8. 17:20Swiss Luger Holsters
  9. 19:04Conclusion and Production Totals

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key simplifications in the Swiss Model 1929 Luger compared to earlier versions?

The 1929 Luger features a straight front strap, an enlarged and shielded grip safety, a simplified trigger, and reduced checkering on controls like the takedown lever and magazine release. These changes streamlined production.

What materials were used for the grips and magazine bases on the Swiss 1929 Luger?

Early 1929 Lugers used red Canvasite grips and magazine bases, which were fragile. Later production shifted to more durable brown Bakelite, and eventually black Bakelite, around serial number 65,000.

How can one identify the production date of a Swiss 1929 Luger?

A unique feature of the 1929 Luger is an internal frame stamp indicating the month and year of production. For example, '7.33' signifies July 1933.

What is the significance of the 'P' marking on some Swiss 1929 Lugers?

The 'P' marking, often accompanied by a two-digit year, indicates that the firearm was a former military issue pistol that was subsequently privatized or sold into civilian ownership after its service life.

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