I fired three pistols (not Lugers) without extractors. They still work 70% of time. All empty cases exit from chamber, but without extractor, the ejected case did not fly out with energy, they just like being dropped lightly to the ground -- the case is too light, and recoil energy is allocated based on weight. Most energy goes to slides/bolts. So, those guns that I tried fail 30% of time on cycling.

Luger should be in similar situation, in theory.

 

I have had Luger extractors break twice. The small hook on the bottom that holds the extractor to the pin broke off in both instances.Both were DWM pistols. Mauser subsequently beefed up this problem area.
When this takes place the extractor will leave the pistol. It's anchor released..the spring is quite powerful and an extractor launch takes flight.

In both instances I experienced, the empty cartridge stayed chambered and another round was stripped from the magazine and pushed into the back of the fired empty shell causing a jam.

 

i had a 1918 and it would stovepipe 99% of the time bought a new extractor and put it in fixed it ...and if you don,t know what stovepiping is that is when it catches the spent case before it,s ejected out...

 

Replacement extractors are available from a variety of sources. Also I recall a thread on extractor replacement if you do a search.

 

Thanks to all for your help.