WWI German DWM Long P.08 Artillery Luger 9mm Semi-Automatic Pistol 1917
Archival record: Specifications and condition reflect the firearm as listed at the time of auction.
Final Auction Price: $2,876.00
The Long P.08, commonly known as the Artillery Luger, is one of the most recognizable variants of the famous German Luger pistol. Produced for military use during World War I, it combined the standard P.08 action with a longer barrel and tangent rear sight for improved range capability. This 1917 DWM example remains all matching and retains its desirable fine-adjustable sight configuration, making it a strong representative of one of the most collectible Luger types.
Identification
MMA#: 260116SV006
Make: DWM
Model: Long P.08, Artillery Luger
Serial Number: 3198b
Year of Manufacture: 1917
Caliber: 9mm Parabellum
Action Type: Single Action semi-automatic pistol with removable magazine
Barrel Length: 8 inches
Sights / Optics
The front sight is a serrated blade dovetailed to a serrated ramped base fixed to the muzzle. The rear sight is the classic Artillery Luger tangent pattern, flat topped with a V notch and an elevator graduated from 1 to 8. This example retains the early fine-tune sight arrangement, with the rear notch adjustable for elevation and the front sight adjustable for windage by spanner screw.
Stock / Grip Configuration & Condition
The grips are two-piece checkered walnut panels matched to the frame. They show light handling wear with a few small nicks and scuffs. Checkering remains well defined and there are no chips or cracks. Overall grip condition: Fine.
Finish & Overall Condition
Type of Finish: Blued with straw controls
Finish Originality: Original
All numbered parts are matching to the frame and there is no visible import mark. This pistol retains approximately 90 percent of its finish. The balance of the finish shows scattered light nicks and scratches, along with a few areas of faint surface oxidation. Operational wear is present, screw heads remain sharp, and markings are clear. Overall condition: Very Good.
Bore & Mechanics
Bore Condition: Gray with well-defined rifling. Scattered erosion and moderate pitting are present, primarily in the grooves. Bore rated 5 out of 10.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hold-open latch and spring are missing, so the toggle does not remain open on an empty magazine. The barrel extension shows barely perceptible play to the frame. The pistol has not been test fired. Cleaning and inspection are recommended prior to use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories
Included are a post-war leather holster and two magazines. The magazines have non-matching floorplates. The holster is unmarked.
Our Assessment
The Long P.08 was developed for specialized military use, first with artillery units and later with airmen, fortress troops, and assault detachments. Its extended 8 inch barrel and tangent sight gave it a distinct silhouette and greater practical range than the standard P.08. The Artillery model also became historically significant as the first Luger variant associated with the 32 round snail drum magazine.
This 1917 DWM example retains matching parts and the increasingly scarce fine-adjustable front and rear sight setup that was phased out later in 1917 as wartime production demands intensified. While the hold-open parts are absent and the bore shows wear, the pistol remains a solid matching example with very good finish and strong collector appeal. Artillery Lugers continue to be among the most desirable military Lugers, and this one would fit well in a focused Imperial German or Luger collection.
The Mt. McCoy Auctions Difference
At Mt. McCoy Auctions, every firearm is carefully documented and professionally photographed to create a detailed archival record. Our descriptions are written to provide collectors and shooters with a clear understanding of condition, features, and historical context.
