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November 4, 2025
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My model 53 has a plate attached to the upper tang where a sight would go. The only thing I can think of is it was included in case the owner wanted to install a tang sight later the bolts would be correct.
Anyone else saw this before or have any information? It’s first year production take down model with three digit serial in 32 WCF if that helps. 
June 26, 2013
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I’ve never seen anything like that before and wondering what its purpose is. Have you removed it to make sure there are no extra holes in the top tang? That’s the first thing I would do.
Don
April 15, 2005
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ukuleleproposer said
My model 53 has a plate attached to the upper tang where a sight would go. The only thing I can think of is it was included in case the owner wanted to install a tang sight later the bolts would be correct.
Anyone else saw this before or have any information? It’s first year production take down model with three digit serial in 32 WCF if that helps.
I have not seen anything like it, but your theory might be the answer.
What is the serial number on your Model 53 rifle? Currently, I have (107) of the (900) 3-digit serial numbers documented in the research survey. Nearly all of the 3-digit serial numbered Model 53 rifles were manufactured in August or September 1924.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
August 14, 2021
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The indent in the plate could be for the shooters thumb.
November 4, 2025
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deerhunter said
I’ve never seen anything like that before and wondering what its purpose is. Have you removed it to make sure there are no extra holes in the top tang? That’s the first thing I would do.
Don
Yes, I removed the plate to ensure the tang markings matched those of a Model 53. It appears original, along with the plate as there is a noticeable point of blue remaining. No extra holes or anything out of the ordinary.
June 26, 2013
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ukuleleproposer said
deerhunter said
I’ve never seen anything like that before and wondering what its purpose is. Have you removed it to make sure there are no extra holes in the top tang? That’s the first thing I would do.
Don
Yes, I removed the plate to ensure the tang markings matched those of a Model 53. It appears original, along with the plate as there is a noticeable point of blue remaining. No extra holes or anything out of the ordinary.
That’s good news. Perhaps it is a thumb rest for the shooter as Steven suggested. Odd and unusual for sure.
Don
April 30, 2023
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It looks to have browned lightly with the rest of the metal, been on there awhile perhaps. I did a reverse image search through Google and found nothing that looked similar. A well-done custom piece perhaps? Another of life’s mysteries!
December 9, 2002
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It certainly makes sense, as it’s been on there a long time, like others have also noticed, and possibly after the tang sight was removed, instead of finding the correct screws, to take the place of the sight being installed. The previous owner made a replacement piece, to keep the original tang screws in place, and with good intentions to re install it at some point. It looks like, the indent in the middle, was made by design, by a very talented craftsman, as a possible one of a king piece, as it was in all likely hood, polished and place on there many years ago, showing honest wear and use.
Interesting, to say the least, as it’s also a first for me!
Anthony
