Abercrombie & Fitch Luger

Published on July 22, 2019
Duration: 9:44

This review details the rare Abercrombie & Fitch marked Luger, a product of a unique 1922 workaround to the Versailles Treaty. Key authentication points include the 'MADE IN SWITZERLAND' marking, a stepped front sight ramp, a Swiss cross on the chamber, and a reinforced rear frame well, features difficult to replicate on fakes. Authentic examples are significantly more valuable than standard commercial Lugers.

Quick Summary

Authenticating an Abercrombie & Fitch Luger involves checking for specific markings like 'MADE IN SWITZERLAND' on the barrel, a stepped front sight ramp, and a reinforced ridge at the rear of the frame well. These features, along with a Swiss cross on the chamber, distinguish these rare pistols from standard DWM models.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Abercrombie & Fitch History & Luger Order
  2. 01:16The 1922 Luger Order & Treaty Issues
  3. 02:22Swiss Workaround: DWM & Hammerli Collaboration
  4. 03:43Examining the Original A&F Holster
  5. 04:39Authentic Markings: Barrel & Chamber
  6. 05:18Identifying Fakes: The Front Sight Ramp
  7. 06:42Finish and Serial Range Details
  8. 08:12Definitive Feature: Reinforced Rear Frame Well

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The A&F Luger was a special 1922 order circumventing the Versailles Treaty. It features 120mm barrels made in Switzerland by Hammerli, distinct markings like 'MADE IN SWITZERLAND', and unique frame reinforcements not found on standard DWM commercial Lugers.

How can one authenticate an Abercrombie & Fitch Luger?

Key authentication points include the specific 'ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO NEW YORK MADE IN SWITZERLAND' barrel marking, a stepped front sight ramp, a Swiss cross on the chamber, and most importantly, a reinforced ridge at the rear of the frame well.

Why were A&F Lugers made in Switzerland?

The Treaty of Versailles prohibited German manufacturers like DWM from producing pistol barrels longer than 100mm. To fulfill Abercrombie & Fitch's order for 120mm barreled pistols, DWM sent frames 'in the white' to Hammerli in Switzerland for barrel production and final assembly.

What are the visual differences to spot a fake A&F Luger?

Look for the absence of the 'MADE IN SWITZERLAND' marking, a flush front sight ramp (instead of stepped back), a flat rear frame well (instead of reinforced), and incorrect finish or markings. These are difficult features for counterfeiters to replicate accurately.

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