Bubba,

I have no idea what you are referring to… specifically a “660” marking ? Which tang are you referring to, upper or lower ? I have looked at a lot of 1st model 1894s, and have not ever seen a “660” marking.

Bert

Bubba,

The marking must be on the inside edge of the upper tang, hidden by the stock, as it certainly is not on the exposed part of the tang. In regards to your original question, it is not possible to answer it.

Bert

Jeff,

Thanks for finding the referenced article, I found it quite interesting. Based on the write-up, it does not appear that even 50% of the 1st models were so marked on the inside edge of the upper tang, which makes it very doubtful that more then a few dozen early 2nd models would have been marked.

Based on my own research, I have to disagree with the stated production number for the 1st models as presented in that article.  In my survey of serial numbers 1 – 7999, I have recorded (318) Model 1894s thus far.  Of that number, (178) of them are 1st models (including two in 30 WCF in the early 5000 serial range), with the highest serial number found thus far being 7471.  Based on my extrapolation of the survey results, the total number of 1st models is most likely somewhere in the 3,500 – 3,700 range.

Bert

Vince said
It might just be me but, I fail to find the number 660 on the 1894 presented. I see a prominent 099 on the side of the tang but no sign of said 660. Oh well, since it will never come to pass that I will ever spend that kind of money on a gun I would be terrified to fire it doesn’t matter. ?  

Vince,

The “099” is upside down, and it is actually “660” when you turn it right side up.  It is not a common practice to use a leading zero “0” digit on a whole number.

Bert