murphy,
As Skeettx said, we can likely give you more info if you post photos of all markings, including especially proof marks on the bottom of the barrels, near the locking lugs. You had a particular question about choke. Under the prewar system, if a barrel was choked, it would be marked with a crown W. Lacking this mark, it would be cylinder bore. The factory was taken away from the family in the mid 30s and they were able to escape to the USA. In efforts to save the company and efforts to take it, several names were used instead of Simson. At various times, BSW, WAFFA, and Gustloff(?) were used. After the war, all gunmaking in Suhl was taken over by the communists. During this time, the Simson name was again used, to take advantage of their fine reputation. Photos of the markings will help sort this out. After the "wall came down" the Simson family survivors were able to recover some of their property. Of course, the business was gone.
Mike
Last edited by Der Ami; 06/19/19 12:03 PM.
