[Simonovsdog]

I bought myself a really nice m96 at a recent gun show. It's dated 1914; all matching less cleaning rod. According to Jones' book, the low serial number for that year is 327380. My new addition is serial number 3269XX. Am I missing something here? I also noticed there was no reference to the rectangle "range" plates that are on some m96s. I need some enlightenment. I'll try to post some pics later.

 

[cruffel]

Serials are what has been reported. There may be many other numbers that may surface.
Range plates were added later as the ammo was updated. Some have the plate or decal, some don't.
1914 is a nice find.

 

[Simonovsdog]

Thanks cruffel. It's actually my second 1914. I was curiuos as to why he didn't mention the range plates. I haven't read the entire book yet, but I have thumbed through it and didn't come across anything.

 

[kriggevaer]

Pages 208-209

 

[Simonovsdog]

Amazing! I don't know how I missed that. I guess everyone needs a DUH! moment now and again. Great book by the way.

 

[box]

Page 208-209 you find the range plate info. Please look again at the serial numbers for 1913 and 1914 on page 148. 1913, 311175 to 325790 and 1914 327380 to 332031. Your serial number is 3269xx it is not in 1913 nor 1914 for the reported serial numbers. Please look further down it says "Total production, based on actual serial numbers is 497,568". Then it says:" Total projected production 517, 000". A difference of 19432 receivers! After every production run they made more receivers to have spare parts. Your rifle may got a spare receiver to fill the number for that year. A picture of the serial number would help.

 

[Simonovsdog]

I'll try and get some pics up tomorrow. It's a real beauty. Looks new. All matching (less cleaning rod). Perfect bore. Still slathered with cosmo/grease. Only one wrist stamp (CG). Stock is reddish straight grain wood.