Not a fine double but an American Classic

[Researcher]

BTW, is there a resource available whereby I could check the serial number of Grandad's gun for date of manufacture?

The 16-gauge was introduced in 1931. Model 11 16-gauge serial numbers began at 1500000, and 16-gauge The Sportsman serial numbers began at S200000. After a while they dropped the S and on September 28, 1937, they dropped the separate serial number sequence for the 16-gauge The Sportsman and from then to 1948 they were numbered together in the Model 11 serial numbers. I have always suspected dropping the separate serial number sequences for The Sportsman was the result of DuPont efficiency experts getting to Ilion.

If it was made before WW-II, we have the old factory ledger which would give the month the receiver with that serial number was put in work, and there should also be a date code on the barrel.

[Stan Hillis]

Originally Posted by Dave Noreen

The 16-gauge was introduced in 1931. Model 11 16-gauge serial numbers began at 1500000, and 16-gauge The Sportsman serial numbers began at S200000. After a while they dropped the S and on September 28, 1937, they dropped the separate serial number sequence for the 16-gauge The Sportsman and from then to 1948 they were numbered together in the Model 11 serial numbers. I have always suspected dropping the separate serial number sequences for The Sportsman was the result of DuPont efficiency experts getting to Ilion.

If it was made before WW-II, we have the old factory ledger which would give the month the receiver with that serial number was put in work, and there should also be a date code on the barrel.

Thanks you so much, Dave. I'll get it out tomorrow and check the serial number. "I'll be back........."