The Mexican Luger

Published on May 1, 2017
Duration: 7:03

This review details the rare Mexican Luger, a variant intended for the Mexican Army under Porfirio Diaz's modernization efforts. Despite favorable trials of 7.65mm and 9mm versions, it was not adopted due to political upheaval. The pistol is identified by its 'Ejercito Mexicano' marking, likely applied in Mexico, and falls within specific serial number ranges shared with Russian trial guns. Mexico ultimately adopted Colt pistols instead.

Quick Summary

The rare Mexican Luger, marked 'Ejercito Mexicano', was evaluated by Mexico under Porfirio Diaz for military modernization. Despite testing both 7.65mm and 9mm variants, political upheaval in 1911 prevented adoption, with Mexico later choosing Colt pistols.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: The Mexican Luger
  2. 01:10Markings & Authenticity: 'Ejercito Mexicano'
  3. 02:48Serial Numbers & Historical Trials
  4. 04:53Why It Wasn't Adopted: Colt Alternatives
  5. 05:57Other Mexican Military Arms

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes the Mexican Luger from standard Luger models?

The Mexican Luger is primarily identified by the 'Ejercito Mexicano' (Mexican Army) marking on the receiver. Its serial number range also overlaps with Russian trial guns, and the markings may have been applied in Mexico rather than at the DWM factory.

Why was the Mexican Luger ultimately not adopted by the Mexican Army?

The planned adoption was halted due to the ousting of President Porfirio Diaz in 1911 and subsequent political instability and budget issues. Mexico instead standardized on Colt 1902 and 1911 pistols.

What caliber variants of the Luger were tested by Mexico?

Historical reports from a British military attaché in 1905 indicate that Mexico tested both the 7.65mm Luger and the 9mm Luger variants during their evaluation process.

What is the significance of the serial number range for Mexican Lugers?

Mexican Lugers typically fall within the serial number range of 11,000 to 12,000. This range is notable as it also includes pistols produced for Russian trials, suggesting a potential connection or shared production period.

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