[bruv]

How does one tell if the black grips are original or postwar made? Are they marked, ?? Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. I couldn't find mention of grip identification on the site, so if it has been discussed already, please point me in the right direction. Thanks.
Dave

 

[Olefogey]

Dave,
After I read your post, I visited a neighbor who has owned a "Black Widow" for about 42 years he tells me, and assures me everything is original although he is just a general type collector. His grips have no markings whatsoever on the back, but they due have the narrow smooth border without any checkering. I couldn't find anything on his that are really distinguishing...hope this helps a bit!!

Dave

 

[Jan C Still]

Dave
Go to the third page of this section to BYF CODE, 42DATED LUGER LAST POST 09/14/2003. The black plastic grips are covered there.

Also go to: Here is the link to some closeup pictures of "Black Widow" grips that I took some time ago. Hope this helps someone.

http://lmd-militaria.com/page65.html

Regards, Leon

Jan

 

[Frank]

Dave, also of note is the thread in the black bakelite material is the same thread size as the grip screws. CAUTION here - DO NOT attempt to put the grip screws into these holes since it may chip the brittle material and ruin a nice set of grips.

There are several very good looking fake black material grips in circulation. One such fake also has threaded holes, but of a larger size and can easily be detected, simply by comparing the grip screws to the threaded holes. Most faked grips don't have any threaded holes on the back surface.

 

[bruv]

Thanks for the info.That has helped a great deal. I have one that looks pretty darn good and matches up on a 1941 date, but am suspicious of one on a 42. Do they all have to have the screw holes, and what were they for?
Dave

 

[Frank]

Dave, I can't say that all genuine black bakelite grips have threaded holes, BUT I will, say that if they don't, I would not touch them with a 10 foot pole!!!!

As to the purpose of the threads, I have heard several explanations. The most believable is they were used for assisting in the release of the grip from the mold during manufacturing.

One other thought was they were place holders for the grip screws during cleaning. This one is a bit far fetched to me since the grips were rarely removed for cleaning during a normal field strip situation.

 

[Pancho]

Here's a link to another set of BWid grips you can use for comparison.
http://www.panchogun.com/FVWebPhotos/FV-Luger-Blk-Widow-5x100px.jpg
I exchanged emails and photos with Toggletop some months ago and he said they were the real thing.
Bought this from Shattuck a few years ago.