I've got a Model 51 with a six-digit serial number ... it doesn't start with "PA". It's a 380, and otherwise seems to match the pre-1922 pistols. The serial number is also stamped on the rear of the slide. The gun is nickel-plated, though of course that may not be original. It had black grips when I got it (I've swapped those for pearlescent ivory grips from Triple K(), and one nickel-plated magazine. Any thoughts?
Took it to the range for the first time last Sunday ... most rounds were getting "tip up" misfeeds from the magazines (one original, two modern from Triple K). We tried some hollow points first ... and thought "Gee, those weren't around in the Twenties." We switched to some FMJ rounds, but still a problem with feeding. Ejection seemed to work fine. Any clues? Is there a particular bullet weight, shape, etc. that Must Be Provided?