DWM Commercial Luger 7.65x21mm/30 Luger Dates Approx 1924 P-08

Here we have a1920 Commercial model that was manufactured by DWM (Deutsche Waffen and Munitionsfabriken) of Berlin chambered in .30 Luger. DWM Commercial Luger Weimar period with an M serial block, so it likely was a 1924 production. This model was introduced to help DWM survive financially after World War I, as the company had become heavily dependent on German military sales. Due to limited financial resources and inventory of military-marked parts, DWM decided to market Lugers made from these existing parts as the 1920 Commercial model. This strategy proved successful and helped DWM regain its financial health.

The 1920 Commercial model has various features, markings, and serial number styles. Some of the more common features include late, flat, checkered-style toggle knobs, the scrolled DWM inscription on the toggle, an unmarked chamber, a stock lug, and a commercial Crown over N proof on the left side of the receiver. The pistol has a 3 7/8" barrel, chambered for 7.65mm (.30 Luger).

It features a new type toggle with flat, checkered toggle knobs, a 4-inch (100mm) barrel chambered for 7.65mm (.30 Luger), and occasionally found in 9mm Parabellum with a 3 7/8" length barrel. The frame is the late, short type with a stock lug, wide trigger, and narrow trigger guard. Many of these models are marked "MADE IN GERMANY" or "GERMANY," indicating they were exported and sold in the US.

The pistol has a late, short type receiver with a blank chamber, a serrated thumb safety lever with a "GESICHERT" marking, a dorsal fin-shaped front sight, and a fixed V notch rear sight in the rear toggle link. The extractor is the late type, marked "GELADEN" or "LOADED" on the left side. The grips are checkered walnut, and the magazine is tin-plated with a wrap-around body and a wooden base, typically not serial numbered or proof marked. The main finish on the 1920 Commercial model is rust blue, with the ejector, magazine catch/release, takedown lever, thumb safety lever, and trigger all being straw-colored.

Serial numbers on the 1920 Commercial model can be found in multiple ranges due to the use of spare and leftover military serial-numbered parts. The serial number is located on the bottom of the barrel and the front of the frame, with the last two digits found on various other parts of the gun.