How to Find Gun Age by Serial Number

Serial numbers are used by a variety of manufacturers for different purposes. From identification, manufacturing information, to age determination, serial numbers provide a point of reference for which manufacturers can reference a wide range of information. Gun manufacturers use serial numbers for many of the same purposes with the date of manufacture being of particular interest to collectors. Tracing the serial number is an accurate means of determining the date of manufacture and often times value of a gun.

Things You'll Need

• Internet or print reference material by manufacturer
• Gun serial number

Instructions

1. Ensure the gun is unloaded by removing any clips or magazines and making sure there are no rounds in the chamber.

2. Locate the serial number on the gun. The number is typically stamped into the metal and may be located on the barrel, receiver, trigger guard or other location.

3. Locate reference material from the manufacturer of the gun. For example, if information regarding a Browning shotgun is being sought, reference Browning's website at www.browning.com. Often times the manufacturer's website is an excellent place to begin a search.

4. Determine the age of the gun by first locating the model of the gun in the reference whether this is online or in print. This will help to narrow the search. There will typically be a listing of serial numbers associated with each model with reference to the date of manufacture next to the number.

5. Contact the manufacturer directly if no online or print source of reference can be located. Many gun manufacturers are more than willing to provide reference information to customers.

Tips & Warnings

• Refer to several sources to obtain accurate information in regard to age especially if this is part of a valuation process.

References

• Browning - Date Your Gun

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish