P38 has been on my want list, this one sprung up.  A bring back with no import marks, but not all original.  Wants $800 with a box, I don't think the box is worth $125 but eh.  I saw import marked P38s for $500.

Is this worth $675?

http://killeen.texasguntrader.com/index.php?a=2&b=659116
Vet bring back(no import marks slide and frame match) barrel guide and magazine(wwii p38 mag and original grips are worth $100 apiece on eBay)are unit armorer replaced, 16 German wwii 9mm cartridges, post war p38 and p1 magazine, lockable custom handmade display box(postwar) is red velvet lined(red was Germany's infantry color like our light blue is for our Infantry) has various 3rd reich insignias around box, pistol will include custom made leather pancake holster and extra p1 mag with carrier with complete purchase. Display box will also fit P.08 Lugers and is available separately for $125 $800 or best offer will accept $600 cash and $200 worth of 5.56, or 7.62 nato will not lower price it is worth more than this but would like to sell will not mind holding on to it either if it doesn't

In today's market $675 is a great deal as long as it is original finish.

Meeting him to take a look - how do I tell if it's original finish?

Being a "late" war gun you should see machine marks prominent in the metal. Use a magnifier to see that all markings are crisp no blurred stampings. Also check to make sure the numbers and suffix letter are the same font.



For reference here is my mint byf 44 police gun. I paid $400 for it many years ago.





 

Thanks again P08.  That's a very nice P-38!

Even if the barrel serial doesn't match?

"Vet bring back(no import marks slide and frame match) barrel guide and magazine(wwii p38 mag and original grips are worth $100 apiece on eBay)are unit armorer replaced"

Looking at a diagram, there is no barrel guide so I assume he means barrel.

If the barrel does not match, then don't pay that much for it. Serial numbers are on frame, slide and front barrel extension.

Thanks.  Shopping around in what time I had suspected but wasn't sure.

I did it, but I paid less.  It's in excellent shape and original finish.  Looks very close to yours, but more holster wear at the barrel.

I'm guessing the bore was probably bad on the original, this one is in fantastic shape.  Too bad, but if it was 100% original it would be a lot more in this shape.

Here it is, I cleaned it up and like that colored in lettering look.  Grabbed a grease pencil and did mine.

Looks like it should be a great shooter.

Thanks!

I've read conflicting accounts of 9mm and the P-38 - that the slides can crack, or you'll be fine.  Obviously stay away from +P or higher pressure rounds.

I have a lot of Freedom Munitions - 124 gr FMJ.  1020 FPS with 345 ft/lbs energy.  Does that stuff sound OK for it?

Not sure about the P38's, but Lugers were designed for 124gr ball. Just stay away from +P.