Stevens Savage 311a Manufacturer Date Help!
 

Well, I’ve just about exhausted all known resources to identify this new (to me) shotgun I couldn’t help but purchase due to the great condition. I’m hoping you guys could lend a hand to a rookie.

I understand the marking system used, but I’m seeing circled letters (A, G) along with various other letters (R V); also a rogue number (6) barried deep on the receiver.

Here is my theory: the A = 311 model ; the G = date code 1956 ; RV = inspectors initials.

While all of this sounds “correct”, I’m having quite the time verifying any of my theories. Any help is greatly appreciated!

You are looking in the wrong place. Beginning in 1949, with A, this little oval on the bottom of the frame, just back of the forearm iron is the date code.

Attachment 79840
F = 1954

If the gun is a J. Stevens Arms Co. from before that time you are out of luck.

Thank you! This one looks like 26I. 1957. Do you have a clue as to what the 26 is referring to? Curiosity is a killer.

I have not seen a viable explanation of the numbers along with the year letter.

Thanks again!

Nick, how about showing us some more pictures of your new gun. Many of us own Stevens and enjoy seeing them.

I've read that the two digit number indicates the gun's final inspector's ID. But with that said I wonder if it's the assembler's ID because the stamping appears to have been done before the cyaniding? Anyway I have two Chicopee Fox Model B's 1959 and 1961 in different gauges and both with the same two digit number prefix.

Here you go!