Lugers Under Versailles: The 1926 Simson P08

Published on April 24, 2021
Duration: 14:43

This review delves into the rare 1926 Simson P08 Luger, a firearm produced under the strict limitations of the Versailles Treaty. Simson & Co., a historic German manufacturer, was uniquely authorized to produce these pistols for internal policing and border defense. The video highlights specific production details, including the limited tooling sets and the unusual dating and serial number on the featured 1926 model, suggesting it was repaired and re-stamped.

Quick Summary

The 1926 Simson P08 Luger is a rare firearm produced under the Versailles Treaty's restrictions. Simson & Co. was the only company authorized to manufacture military firearms for Germany's internal security needs, making these pistols historically significant.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Simson P08 & Versailles Treaty
  2. 01:23History of Simson & Co. in Suhl
  3. 03:38Luger Production Tooling Origins
  4. 05:30The Rare 1926 Simson Luger
  5. 07:11Proof Marks & Technical Details (RC Stamp)
  6. 09:42Simson Luger Production & Usage
  7. 11:21The Fall of Simson & Co. to Nazis

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Simson P08 Luger unique under the Versailles Treaty?

The Versailles Treaty severely restricted German arms production after WWI. Simson & Co. was uniquely authorized to manufacture and rework military firearms for the German army's internal policing and border defense needs, making their Lugers historically significant.

How many sets of Luger production tooling existed, and where did Simson get theirs?

Only four sets of Luger production tooling were ever created. Simson & Co. acquired one of these sets from the Erfurt Arsenal around 1920, which they used to produce their P08 pistols.

Why is the 1926-dated Simson Luger unusual?

Simson only dated their Lugers in 1925 and 1926. The featured 1926 model has a serial number suggesting 1925 production, indicating it likely failed initial quality control and was repaired and re-stamped the following year.

What does the 'RC' proof mark on a Simson Luger signify?

The 'RC' stamp stands for Revisions Commission. It indicates that a specific part on the firearm was found to be near the edge of manufacturing tolerance but was deemed usable after undergoing extra inspection and approval.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →