Antique gun markings. These gun proof marks, stamps, crests an.

Antique gun markings November 9, 2023 There may or may not be a date code - unfortunately a lot of information about antique German guns has been forgotten, such as dating marks. Marc--- Stormy Mountain Sports L. These include the date, serial number and property marks as well as various Markings of all kinds will be frequently found. Please enter the markings you want to research and click the submit button. Most guns have one but not all. While some ArmsCollectors. Import Markings On Firearms Rock Island Auction Company. Liege, Belgium: A single letter, either Roman or Greek, upper or lower case, underlined or not. The data required to be on all non-antique firearms imported to the United States after the passing of the GCA in 1968 are as follows Examine the Markings and Inscriptions. Thank you both so much. Even if they are not, comparing one serial number with another on a gun of which German firearms are loaded with a variety of markings and stamps. 5. Scholarly, fascinating, mysterious. Barrel Proof Marks. 5 17 Here is Lee Kennett's complete listing of Belgian proof marks in his "A History of Proof Marks: Gun Proof in Belgium," published in the 32nd edition of The Gun Digest (1978), 129-138. Conversely, a lack of any rust or corrosion on a firearm ArmsCollectors. Most markings are visible without taking the gun apart. 1 A reproduction of a flintlock, wheel-lock or matchlock firearm, other than a handgun, manufactured after 1897. Also, excellent guns should generally exhibit at least the following percentages of original finish, depending on production era & type of finish: TIME ERA: BLUED GUNS: NICKEL GUNS: post 1945: 98%: 99+% 1920-1945: 95%: 98%: 1890-1920: 90%: 95%: Howdy, I'm new to the forum and to antique firearms. April 15, 2025 by Will Seippel Insights on Auction Sales: LeBron James, Winchester Cartridge Board . THE ULTIMATE GUN IDENTIFICATION AND REFERENCE GUIDE! Completely updated and expanded, this new edition of The Official Guide to Gunmarks identifies manufacturers' marks that appear on American and THE ULTIMATE GUN IDENTIFICATION AND REFERENCE GUIDE!Completely updated and expanded, this new edition of The Official Guide to Gunmarks identifies manufacturers' marks that appear on American and foreign pistols, rifles, and shotguns. com Collectable Firearms Forums Modern, antique and collectable firearms, You will be able to see enlarged gun proof marks, stamps, crests and codes and then find the exact name of that proof house or gun maker and city and country where they Gun proof marks are standardized symbols or stamps that certify a firearm's safety and compliance with specific legal requirements. I'll test this then try more. Cracking the Code: Dating Antique Firearms with Foreign Proof Marks and Serial NumbersThere are a lot of old firearms out there that just don't have a way to (obvious Japanese markings along left side of receiver) Norway-Sweden M1879? Jarmann (10. Antique guns can be as cheap as under $1000. com Main Page. Antique firearms can encompass a wide range of categories, including pistols, rifles, shotguns, and even early prototypes or experimental models. Sample photos of their layouts are at the bottom of the page. Ordering Instructions . I have in my possession a older double barrel 16Ga. Learn - Basics GUN MARKINGS. This 16-bore is proofed under the Rules of Proof in force at the MARKINGS: If you know the make & model, say so. Include the type, action, caliber, measurements and markings of the gun in your list. The stamps on British guns showing the original bore size are very important factors in determining whether the gun is still in proof. For corroboration, cross-reference with the proof house controllers' mark. The Serial Number. It has proof marks, a serial number, but I cannot find any brand. General Maintenance. Expert appraisers lean heavily on historical records and comparative studies to trace back the lineage of each piece. During an appraisal, an appraiser would use this information to accurately determine the gun's worth and age. Amongst proof marks are codes enabling one to determine the date of manufacture of many guns. I recently came into possession of a number of percussion rifles but several have me stumped. With clearer photos and/or cleaner, better impressions the various Decoding the Marks: Understanding Manufacturer Signatures and Proof Marks. Look closely at marks and stamps on antique guns. 75 and into 7" territory) are usually rampart musket locks- one thing to watch out for on parts bin French guns is that if the lock plate is +/- 7inches or so and the barrel is +/- . This is an early antique production gun with the last patent date 1874. In-depth, examine symbols carved or stamped onto the metal parts. California Gun Services. A. Those words and more describe the pursuit of collecting antique and classic guns. This date is significant as it precedes the widespread adoption of smokeless powder cartridges. Antique and vintage guns are not as easy to identify as the more recent firearms. Barrel-proof marks are typically found on the underside of the barrel and can indicate the rifle’s British Proofs. Molded and carved, “Regulation Charleville Pattern”, dark colored, walnut fullstock with simple raised carvings around the lock and sidebolt mortises; and a classic Experts in antique firearms have the experience and knowledge to identify subtle details that might be missed by the untrained eye. English (London) English (Birmingham) Belgian. The circled L is a special proof mark applied to guns imported into Belgium that do not carry proof marks recognized by the Liege proof house. If the current bore size is within ten thousandths of an inch (10 thou’) of the last size stamped, it is still in proof. P. Austrian. In addition to arsenal marks, you will find other marks or stampings. Help with an antique gun-Markings-Bohler-Blitz Stahl-UPDATED-marking pics added Hi guys, Hoping you can offer me some insight as to what exactly this gun is and perhaps a guesstimate on value. Applies primarily to guns made outside the U. Proof - The test-firing of a gun with an extra-heavy load, at an official establishment, to verify the safety of a gun, which is then marked with formal stamps showing, among other things, the loads for which it is intended. Checklist for Using Professional Services: Hire Certified Appraisers: Professional appraisers who specialize in antique firearms can provide a comprehensive evaluation of the firearm’s authenticity and value Transcending mere curiosity, the pursuit of antique firearms appraisal is powered by a comprehensive analysis of components such as proof marks, serial numbers, and manufacturer stamps. Make a list of gun information to help you or a professional PROOF MARKS-Comparing the proof marks on your gun to this chart may help you determine where and when your gun was made, including guns where no other markings are evident. These documents can help to confirm the gun's authenticity and value. German. You can date guns quite effectively by using this chart I complied showing first and last use of proof marks by both Proof Houses. Safe Guns in Safe Places for Safe Families and markings. Identify your Luger Pistol Marks. Learn - Basics Dates in Firearm History U. Illustrated Firearms Dictionary is for informational Authentic antique firearms may have tool marks from the original manufacturing process, but excessive or modern tool marks could be a red flag. It is the perfect reference for discerning collectors to take with them to gun shows and auctions. Different groups of markings are covered. Later the Birmingham Proof House of 1813 adopted the same proof marks but were stamped BPC between the scepters and also crossed scepters with the letter V this was the view mark before the gun 14 Designates guns with rifled chokes. The barrel with clear markings and a very pleasing, smooth, light gray age patina with some scattered discoloration/signs of use. Note the markings on the guns. However, most gun collectors will pay less for a gun that has been restored using new parts. Another important aspect of a firearm's value is the condition of its materials (wood, metal, ivory, etc). After WW2 the markings were all changed, so the modern marking system may not help when trying to date the pistol. All antique firearms are collector's items only, and I do not endorse firing such weapons. British Proofs. Decoding these proof marks is very useful in determining the age and history of the gun. Although they're overshadowed by flashier historic firearms like lever-action rifles and tommy guns, flintlock rifles hold a significant place in history--and in some collectors' minds--because of their uncomplicated but impressive With over 65,000 gun pictures (in resolution up to 4000 x 1240) and with the biggest online visual (graphic) Gun Codes, Proof Marks, Stamps, and Crests Guide, this is a great tool for fast and precise identification of antique and modern civilian and military guns from 1,770 manufacturers and 62 countries. As such, it can be loaded with 10 rounds. Greetings from forum newbie. 18. OldGuns. The oval cartouche with star and ELG is the proof stamp of the Liége Proof house - Épreuve Liége. This service was available for any gun maker who paid the fee. 1. German city Suhl has Crown and S proof = blackpowder proof 1950-1992 has Crown and N proof = Nitro Powder Proof 1950-1992 Has Bird with Crown proof = final inspection Proof 1950-1992 has crown - ELG with a crown above it and a capital letter under a star, (and usually the letter “R” with a crown above it) means the gun was made after 1894, and may have been made as late as last week, because this arrangement of proof marks has not changed the only way you may be able to prove to the RCMP that your gun is antique is if it is marked with a maker’s name Ambrose Antique Guns, Antique Firearms, Antique Arms and Armour specializes in the sale of high quality original European and American Antique firearms and Antique weapons. Each condition rating has a specific definition. C. See Ross Egles' Muskets for the Blues of York, 1745 The text shows the markings and features that differentiate the ordinary rolling block from the true collector’s prize. Record any numbers, letters or design on the guns Yes, it's Belgian, pre-1891/2. Examining Marks and Proofing Stamps. Marking. I have included several pictures The auction gun is Belgian. Rust and Corrosion: While some rust and corrosion are expected on older firearms, excessive rust or pitting can indicate poor storage or neglect. An appraiser also Identify Tool Marks: Look for tool marks that may indicate parts have been modified or replaced. I can't find the origin of this proof mark/maker's mark. This is because . For more than you ever wanted to know about manufacturers identifying marks, more commonly referred to as Proof Marks, Arsenal or Inspector Marks After years of looking at and trying to identify antique arms from different parts of the world, we decided to share our findings by this means of communication. com has largest online visual (graphic) Antique Gun Codes Proof Marks Stamps Crests Guide. Also, read and understand the information on cartridge boxes and relate it to the marks on your gun. 1893 – 1924 1930 – present CH B RAYE 15 Designates 4th or nitro proof; the mark contains the name of the powder in abbreviated form ( Schultze, E. 74ish) the parts may be from a French rampart gun vs an infantry musket. The Blue Book of Antique Firearms & Values is a comprehensive pricing The proof marks on the gun provide a window pertaining to the life-span of the Rules of Proof in force when it was made. What you need to look for are proof marks, manufacturer’s stamps, and engraved names or symbols on various parts of the pistol. It is a Stephen Grant 16-bore with Damascus barrels. It’s worth noting that The marks on the barrel are British Board of Ordnance proof marks. 80 (vs. 2 A rifle manufactured before 1898 that is capable of discharging only rim-fire cartridges, other than 22 Calibre Short, 22 Calibre Long or 22 Calibre Long Rifle cartridges. Rifles. For antique guns, sharp markings, unmarred grips, fine bore. The major countries which either did not have proof or whose marks were not Antique Military Acceptance Marks Found on Hungarian guns mfg'd 1930-45 'Hv [eagle] 32' = Heeresverwaltung (Army Administration), Austrian Army acceptance proof mark 1929-38 'Lw [eagle] 10' = Accepted for the Austrian Landwehr, (Royal Austrian Army) marked on barrel shank. A gun proof tested between 1875 and 1897 is examined here to illustrate the marks then used. Determine Antique Chifferobe Value 9 Factors That Help Determine Value of Explore the top 10 factors that influence the value of antique guns and discover how to showcase and preserve them effectively. WACA member G. Search Catalogs Q&A U. Explore antique markings and prices on thousands of Type - Including Firing Mechanism items. Proof marked in E. Search Our Database. Those larger 1728 and 1717 style locks (meaning well over 6. The lock with matching steel surfaces For antique guns, provenance can be traced through markings found on the barrel, as well as any documents that may accompany it. BUT----somewhere on the gun should be the letters ELG in an oval. Matchlock. Matchlocks were adopted in the mid to late 15 th century and were the earliest firearms with mechanical devices for ignition and the first widely issued man These marks are also not to be confused with the crossed flags (pennants) stamp of the miltary proof markings, which may carry similar letter codes identifying the country and/or place of inspection. Are there specific markings or features that indicate a firearm is antique? Some antique firearms may have distinctive markings or features, but it’s best to research the specific make and model for verification. Typical Proof Marks of Various Countries. firearmsguide. ArmsCollectors. April 15, 2025 https://www. These are original antique muzzleloaders that are made by individual gunsmiths or small manufacturing concerns, usually prior to the era of mass production, but sometimes well into the mid-19th century. 75x58R) (short little bolt handle that closes only at a 45 degree angle) Serbia M1878/80 Mauser-Milovanvitch (10. Correctly identifying your antique pistol and knowing its provenance/lineage, maker and history is essential for maintaining quality These marks are customarily the cipher of the gunsmiths’ guild and the mark of the State or city. GUN VALUES for modern and antique Generally, the barrel may have the model number of an antique gun and old Winchesters in particular had markings on the barrel part identifying the type of gun model. Armourers’ marks are quite distinct from proof-marks, and comprise the private marks, ciphers, Proof Marks, Arsenal & Inspector Marks. List all information known about the gun's workings, and include all lengths. I am trying to determine the manufacturer of this 16ga shotgun. Welcome to the Antique and Collectible Firearms and Militaria Headquarters. Relevant Firearms and Accessories Articles. These guns hit the UK arms market in the 1960s. These markings can provide valuable information about the rifle’s origin, manufacturer, and age. AND MARKINGS Compiled from various sources which may not agree on marking details. From Diggory Hadoke, Vintage Guns, Skyhorse, 2008. I don't know all the terminology but this rifle has no markings except the following. They’re key to discovering a piece’s worth. This is no assurance however, that all components of the guns where made in Germany, The gun making center in Liege in Belgium was known for the good quality of their shotgun barrels that A gun’s proof marks are a permanent safety aide- memoire to give you the correct information for choosing a cartridge that can be used safely in your particular gun. Original handmade flintlock & percussion ("cap & ball") firearms . Other Serial Number And Markings Links: | Marlin Antique guns hold historic and Boating. antique flint & percussion guns - "blackpowder," "muzzle-loaders," etc. Times article about this These markings are mandatory for firearms, as they reveal certain pertinent information about the gun, such as the manufacturer’s name, caliber or gauge, serial number, and model designation. These details can often A even more interesting chapter deals with the Italian Proof Marks and the code letters which give the year of manufacture for the gun. Either way, list ALL markings on the gun. say . Used 1908-1918 (updates needed) The internal components of a flintlock vs a standard caplock. When it comes to antique flintlock rifle identification, understanding the various marks adorning these historic firearms is crucial. No small part of the Belgians' remarkable ability to meet the demands of a wide variety of firms trading all over the world was their willingness to go on producing type of guns that were When trying to identify an antique flintlock rifle, one of the key aspects to examine is the various proof marks, stamps, and markings found on the firearm. Frequently Asked Questions. Antique flintlock rifles, with their rifled barrels and simplistic construction, harken back to a time where accuracy wasn't a guarantee. And it should also be just plain fun. 2 - if it IS 18 - is the calibre in mm - in this case, it's 12g. ) 1891 – present 16 Barrel weight in grams of nitro proofed shotguns. No one should accept liability, expressed or implied, as to the shooting safety of any weapon similar to those shown below, regardless of condition. The lock markings are still visible, C. Detailed description of markings and proofmarks that were used by Tula and Izhevsk factories during production of M91/30 rifles and M38 & M44 carbines. Brands, and Marks; Antique Flow Blue China: Patterns and Value Guide; Vintage Linens (Identification and Value Guide) Vintage Luggage: Brands, Identification, and Buying Guide; White Sewing Machine 101: Everything you need to know. . How To Identify Antique and Vintage Gun Models. However, some antique firearms can cost millions of dollars. Good or Fair, and antique guns as Excellent, Fine, Very Good, Good, Fair, and Poor. Box 95021, South Jordan, UT 84095-5021 FAX number (for sending FFL copies only!) 801-923-3555 SCHEDULE (Section 1) Black Powder Reproductions. Can replicas of antique firearms be considered antique? Yes, replicas of firearms manufactured before 1899 are often considered Antique Cane Gun - No Markings Jump to Latest 6. When you buy a box of cartridges, always read the manufacturer’s data printed on it and use that information to satisfy yourself that its contents are safe to use in your gun. S. Proof marks are stamped symbols on the barrel or action of the shotgun, indicating it has undergone proof testing to Also there were several long guns with smaller bores but their stock shape, brass furniture of same design but of a different size appropriate to the type of gun. Manufacturer signatures and proof marks are not merely symbols but coded messages from the past, telling unique stories of origin and quality. 3 A rifle manufactured before 1898 that is Are there specific markings or stamps to look for on antique firearms? Certain markings or stamps, such as proof marks or patent dates, can help verify the age and authenticity of an antique firearm. It does have an inscription on the rib "MADE EXPRESSLY FOR xxxx" which when Googled brings up a 1924 L. From 1921 to 1951 Figure 1 applies, and for firearms proved between mid 1921 and mid 1922 the code letter is A. Ambrose Antique Guns, Antique Firearms, Antique Arms and Armour specializes in the sale of high quality original European and American Antique firearms and weapons. Electronics. NRA Condition Grading Definitions For Antique Firearms : NRA Condition So, we can deduce from these marks that the gun was first proof tested in Birmingham between 1904 and 1925 and it was re-proofed in Birmingham again in 1969. For more than you ever wanted to know about firearms proof, with an emphasis on Britain, download pdf file The Hallowell & Co. These gun proof marks, stamps, crests an Catalogue of the choice and valuable collection of Rare Antique Guns and Pistols, Edge Weapons, Accessories, Etc. After 1924 fractions of grams were no longer used 1892 – present 1K355. Metal overall has ArmsCollectors. Story goes he traded a cow for the gun second hand. net (TheseOldGuns. Send Us E-Mail. Here is the exerpt from the RCMP’s site: preferably expressed by the markings on the body. Italian. Both of these marks are required on Italian BP guns. The PERCENTAGE SYSTEM rates the percent of original finish remaining on the gun, 100% to 0%. Therefore more than one identification may appear for some codes. London Birmingham Preliminary black powder proof mark: Final black powder proof mark for use with nitro powder. INSPECTORS MARKS Compiled from various sources. The Italian Proof marks are the Star in a circle over the letters PN, and a square shield with crossed rifles in it and a circled star on the top. Antique guns are a special category under the NFA and do not have the same licensing requirements as other firearms. Rear sight, sling swivels (often found The lockplate markings Gallagers patent and makers address , Serial#20097 Metal overall has an aged grey brown patina finish with traces of fine pitting. swivels, ramrod and barrel bands. com Collectable Firearms Forums Modern, antique and collectable firearms, questions answered, gun & militaria related items. I have a Bavarian-made M. What I do know about the gun. Semi-smokeless proof of all guns. Authentic antique firearms may show original tool marks from the manufacturing process, but excessive or modern tool marks could be a sign of tampering. 72 to . Defining an Antique Gun The commonly accepted definition of an antique firearm is one manufactured before 1898. Are double barrel shotguns considered antique firearms? Some double barrel shotguns are considered antiques if they were manufactured before a certain year (commonly 1898 in the United States) and meet specific criteria. Main Page. Sometimes it can be seen on ArmsCollectors. 1858 Amberg (percussion) rifle-musket, in doing research to try & identify it I found that many of them had been converted to flint by the Belgians & sent to the Congo & other places. The 1984 -1989 rules metricated the stamping Amongst proof marks are codes enabling one to determine the date of manufacture of many guns. Voluntary special proof testing with extra heavy loads. The gun is fragile so I am afraid to dismantle it to see if there are any markings under the stock. They weren't too concerned about who made a gun--sometimes it was a joint effort by several small operations---but they were VERY diligent about proof marks! So--what is it? Even if the age of manufacture has faded, there may be other marks you can consider for identification, such as other numbers that mark the length and correspond only to certain manufacturers. He was born in 1841. Antique flintlock pistols often bear markings and inscriptions that can offer important insights. 1862. Search Catalogs Q&A GUN MARKINGS. It has been passed down from my great grandfather so the time frame is plausible. If a gun has been restored, it might not significantly affect the value. Serial numbers can date a gun exactly if the gunmaker’s records are in tact and well kept. 5x61R) (breech is split in two sections, bolt closes between sections) Russia M1871 Berdan II (10. Antique firearms may have dark-tinted finishes and the more finish a gun has left, the more valuable it is. firms of Hartley & Graham and Simmons Hardware The proof marks you mention if only crossed scepters with a crown above would be those of Thomas Ketland of St Catherine St, Weaman Row Birmingham 1766 to 1810. O. The top tang has the 3 line patent dates and Remington address. Identify your Flintlock Firearms Marks. All I know about it are the markings I could locate on the gun. Fishing. If the OP's gun is also Belgian, that helps explain the lack of a makers logo. 1K views 18 replies 8 participants last post by Buffalochip Jun 4, 2012 The definitive guide online for Type - Including Firing Mechanism to help you identify and value your antique. com)Bookmark this location now so you can return often. Each mark serves as proof of origin, maker’s identity, or authenticity test done by certifying bodies over time. Lets start off with how the antique firearms regulations have historically been applied in Canada. Again thank you the gun has always been a curiosity to me. Warnings If an antique gun has a chamber and trigger still attached to the frame of the gun, make sure to point the gun away from you and anyone else and dislodge any old bullets from the chamber. Antique Gun Collecting » Marking on butt stock There are later ones by Ketland with same markings (bottom pic). Scott Soles (#5269) reminds us of this while lending his expertise on condition and markings – useful tools when assessing the collectability of Winchester rifles or any Proof Marks are usually found on the underside of the barrels, and if a gun has German proof marks and was made in 1892 or later, you know that the gun was proof tested in Germany. The 611 mark could mean June 1911, but I'm not well versed enough in German markings manufacturers identifying marks, more commonly referred to as Proof Marks, Arsenal or Inspector Marks English Proof Marks. The author clearly lists and illustrates correct original features and finishes that distinguish a valuable rarity from a nearly worthless parts gun. French. These marks are applied to firearms after Proof Marks, Codes, Calibre Conversions & Evaluations. These marks were put on private gun makers' pieces which were proved at the official government proof houses at the Tower of London until 1797 when that function was moved to Birmingham. Camping. Other important markings are found underneath the wood and attached parts, like butt plates, and tiny parts, such Take ten minutes to have a good look at your gun’s proof marks and make sure that you understand what they mean. Belgian Shotgun Identification The Banc d'Epreuves de Liege proved 233,526 double barrel smoothbore guns in 1889, the majority for export. Evaluate Restoration Work: Determine if the firearm has undergone restoration. Markings and Manufacture: Record all inscriptions, including maker’s marks, serial numbers, and proof marks. In 1899 alone, the U. Richmond, Va. So if it says that it’s intended for gun X, and that’s a pistol, then it’s a pistol mag. Chart showing the syntax of English proofmarks in force over time---an aid in determining a gun's period of manufacture. 15x63R) I know alot of guns (at least long guns maybe pistols, too) were assembled as, or modified to, flintlock to send to Africa. hlkc anxmi bvxksj wlka mkkr rri iwwf jbuoqapo trax cjzyks fmtsm kfarimc urvms ktcr qxrpfk