(Read more on buying a gun at auction.) Shotgun markings explained So what’s the answer? You need to know how to read the different proof marks on guns and serial numbers to be able discover how old a gun is. (Shotgun restoration – where to get it done and what to spend. The guns in question are usually around 20 years old and manufactured in Italy, Spain or Japan. (Read more on buying guns second-hand here.) Gun owners ask “how old is my gun or can I date my gun from its serial number?” It’s usually when they have just bought a second-hand gun or are thinking about it.

Want to buy a single issue of Shooting Times, Sporting Gun or Airgun Shooter?Ī frequently asked question received by Sporting Gun magazine is about proof marks on guns.

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Shotgun certificate – how to get one and how to renew one.

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The date codes above apply only to guns made in Italy. Prior to 1945 date codes were in Roman numerals and included the month and the last two numbers of the year, so January 1922 would be rendered IXXII. IMAGE 1: Over and Under: Underneath the chambers. Whist this code isn’t in the same place for all guns, we hope the photos below will help you locate it. Your Beretta Date Code will either be Roman Numerals for earlier guns or two letters for later guns.

Beretta shotgun serial number lookup