Yesterday I was given an 1894 by a friend. its a project for sure, with no wood at all..and a couple easily replaceable parts needed. The last 4 digits of the serial number are legible, and judging from the centering of the numbers it should be a 6 digit gun..The first two digits have been mostly obliterated by a gouge in the metal.. My best guess is 113632  which should be a 1901 gun if not mistaken..not confident enough for a search. so my question is, do the following facts fit for a 1901 date. If so my guess is probably correct on the serial number..Its a rifle in 25-35 with the nickel steel especially for smokeless powder stamping on left side flat, just ahead of the receiver. No proof on barrel or receiver. on bottom of barrel the markings starting at rear are 25-35 NS  JA in circle. 94 and a star..Should a gun of this vintage have a date on the bottom of the barrel? I assume the 94 marking must be for the model?  Tang stamp is Model 1894  -WINCHESTER- then patent date aug 2 1894. ..curious as to whether this will pinpoint it close enough to verify my guess as to serial number. thanks   brian