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March 12, 2023
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I have a1903 vintage Model 1895, .30 US, that has fish hook style sling swivels. The front swivel mount is dovetailed into the bottom of the rifle’s barrel. The rear swivel mount is threaded into a threaded metal grommet inletted into the stock. I have a factory letter for the rifle, but it doesn’t mention the swivels. Any opinions on whether these are factory? Also, the factory letter states that the rifle returned to the factory in 1904 to have a shotgun butt replaced with a crescent butt plate.
Thanks,
Gus
April 15, 2005
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Gus,
Does it have a crescent butt? What is the exact distance from the butt to the center of the rear sling eye? Have you pulled the fore end stock off and checked the bottom of the barrel for a work order number?
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
March 12, 2023
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Bert,
The measurement from the crescent butt plate to the center of the sling eye is 6-3/8″. There are marks stamped into the underside of the barrel (see photos). Underneath the flat v-type carrier spring is stamped a small heart, a small triangle, the letters NS (nickel steel?), the number “3”, and a capital letter “H”.
Thanks,
Gus
March 12, 2023
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Bert,
I misread the factory letter. It wasn’t returned to the factory for the buttplate conversion. It was done before it left the factory. See attached photo.
Thanks,
Gus
April 15, 2005
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Gus,
The sling eyes are definitely aftermarket additions.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
March 12, 2023
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Thanks Bert!
December 9, 2024
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Bert H. said
Gus,
The sling eyes are definitely aftermarket additions.
Bert
Just curious what indicates that to you? I’m not disagreeing I’m just trying to learn.
April 15, 2005
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helidriver72 said
Bert H. said
Gus,
The sling eyes are definitely aftermarket additions.
Bert
Just curious what indicates that to you? I’m not disagreeing I’m just trying to learn.
Two things;
(1) the physical position of the rear sling eye is not correct. Fortunately, very few people were/are aware that Winchester positioned the rear sling eye very precisely
(2) the fact that there is no mention of the sling eyes in the factory letter.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
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