S#: 3965m | 4” Barrel | One of the most sought-after variations of the WWII Mauser P.08 Luger, this is an outstanding 1942 Mauser “byf 42” Portuguese Contract Black Widow chambered in 9mm Parabellum. These pistols represent the very end of Mauser’s Luger production and are among the scarcest military Lugers produced during the Second World War. Serial number 3965m, which falls into the Portuguese Army Serial Block of “1m-5282m”. This example is 100% matching throughout, including the firing pin, and retains its original black Bakelite “Black Widow” grips along with the correct “fxo” magazine with Eagle/37 proof and black Bakelite base. The pistol is correctly marked “byf” on the toggle with the 1942 chamber date and bears the proper Eagle/135 Waffenamt acceptance and military proof marks. The bore is absolutely pristine, making this not only a premier collector’s piece but also an exceptional shooter |||| HISTORY: The Portuguese Contract Lugers have a fascinating history. By 1942, Mauser had begun transitioning away from P.08 production in favor of the newer P.38. Portugal, however, specifically requested additional Lugers, resulting in a special contract being filled using a limited batch of German military-accepted byf 42 pistols. Rather than producing a unique commercial contract, Mauser diverted a portion of its already Waffenamt-inspected military production to Portugal. These pistols retained full German military acceptance markings and are identifiable today by their distinctive serial number range and suffix blocks, making them virtually identical to standard Wehrmacht-issued pistols while possessing a unique and highly collectible history. Delivery to Portugal occurred in early 1943, with only approximately 5,000 pistols believed to have been included in the contract, making them significantly scarcer than standard wartime Mauser Lugers. Collectors prize these Portuguese Contract Black Widows because they combine the desirable late-war Mauser features—black Bakelite grips, military acceptance markings, and wartime production—with one of the rarest documented foreign military contracts of the Second World War. All-matching examples in this level of preservation are becoming increasingly difficult to locate. An exceptional opportunity to acquire one of the finest and most desirable late-war Mauser P.08 Lugers for the advanced Luger collector! |||| CONDITION: Excellent. 98% Original Blue finish. Nice crisp and clear markings that have been chalked for improved visibility and appearance. Black Bakelite grips are excellent with honest wear. Magazine is very good with nice blue finish, crisp markings, and a small repaired crack on black base. Black base also shows a small chip in the corner. Follower and spring work great. Mechanically functions. Bore is excellent ||||| CLASS: C&R