I bought a 1894 rifle serial #127977. It has the octagon barrel and is in 32-40. I’m guessing the date at 1902 or so. My question is, the rifle is proof stamped on both the barrel and receiver and I thought proofs did not appear until around the 290,000 or so range. Any comments ideas?
jschaal
I have found in the past when I looked up early guns with the WP they had repair and returns in the factory records. Circle P might be another story.
Also I guess it would have the slight chance of an early serial # and a late shipping date by several years. Checking the records would be a start. Email me some pics if you want.
Brad
Serial number 127977 (late 1901) is several years too early for proof marks. In my on going researh survey, Model 1894 serial number 260389 is the highest serial number I have found without proof marks. The next highest serial number I have in the survey is 264188, and it has proof mark stamps. All other serial numbers that I have found above that point have proof marks on them. Serial number 264188 went through the PR in April of 1905.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
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