The “New” Luger?

The Pistole 08 is a new service pistol. Made in Germany, its design is by Georg Luger. The 9mm Parabellum (9x19) cartridge fits the pistol like it was made for it. It’s also offered in 7.65mm, but it looks like the pistol could likely be adapted to .40 S&W, and there are rumors of a .45 ACP version. Autopistol fans will immediately note a resemblance to the old reliable Ruger .22 pistol. The similarity in names has caused some to suspect “Luger” is actually a play on the name of famous designer Bill Ruger. However I’m assured that Georg Luger is in fact a real person.

Despite its superficial resemblance to the .22 pistol, the Luger is an entirely different design, a short recoil, locked breech centerfire. Its operating principle is quite unusual as there is no slide, as on the familiar Browning pattern. Instead the breech is locked by a toggle — two pieces of steel hinged together. In battery the components of the breechblock are in a straight line. In this position it appears to lock up very strongly. Upon firing, barrel and breechblock move back a short distance, still locked, along grooves in the receiver. As the bullet exits the barrel and pressure drops, the toggle hinges strike curved ramps on the receiver, opening the breechblock.

The Luger feels good in the hand. The grip is angled considerably more than the 1911, slightly greater even than the popular Glock. It is a bit muzzle-light compared to my 1911 and Glock pistols, though. With its single stack magazine the grip is slim and comfortable. Magazine release button is in the familiar 1911 position at the base of the triggerguard, and the 8-round magazines have a loading button on the side.

There's more from Dave Anderson in the March/April issue...

• Needs Some Improvements
• Reliability?

Order your copy of the March/April issue
and get more Winning Edge!

Order Your March/April Issue Here