i COLLECTOR’S CORNER

Many of the smaller components of the C 96 No. 3 display one or two-digit numbers, some of which are parts of the serial number and others a dismantling code. The bolt and the cross-piece, on which the mainspring bears, both carry the last two digits of the serial number. For example, on gun 397 it’s ‘97’. The cross-piece, however, also bears the number ‘4’ on both sides, the serial number group lies on the top surface, which is the dismantling code. The firing pin is ‘3’, the barrel-retaining screw ‘7’, the trigger ‘11’, and so on. These numbers represent the order in which the guns are taken to pieces. The manual states ‘As far as possible the parts are marked with their range number in order to support the memory when the pistol is taken to pieces or fitted together.’