When did Model 1873 marking change?

[Cannonman1]

My 1888 vintage 73 and my 1907 vintage 73 differ in that the "Model 1873" script on the upper tang is different .. The 1907 vintage gun has WINCHESTER in the center of 3 lines while the earlier 1888 vintage gun just says Model 1873.  When exactly did this change? 

[Cliff Fendley]

Right around turn of the century during 1899-1900. Usually considered to be at serial number 550,000 but don't know if it was the year change, exact serial number, or if they just up and one day changed it but that is about the timeline.

[Cannonman1]

Thank You for answering. Its always an education isn't it.. Good to know.

[Cliff Fendley]

Yes. I've heard some regard that marking change as an indicator of whether they are an antique or not. Although I think the change is a year or so off of what BATFA considers antique and needs 4473.

[Abilene]

Cannonman1, you should get a copy of Arthur Pirkle's book on the toggle-link guns.  It is very inexpensive (like $23 on Amazon) and chock-full of details on all the models.

[dusty texian]

Cannonman1, you should get a copy of Arthur Pirkle's book on the toggle-link guns.  It is very inexpensive (like $23 on Amazon) and chock-full of details on all the models.

Money well spent , loads of info .,,,DT

[Cliff Fendley]

I'll have to look that up myself

[Cliff Fendley]

Oh I just looked I do have that book and yes it is very good. I've read through it and have used it as reference many times. Highly recommended.