How to Date a Western Field Shotgun: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re lucky enough to own a Western Field shotgun, you’re holding a piece of American history. These firearms, produced by Western Auto Supply Company, are known for their affordability and reliability. But how can you tell exactly when your Western Field shotgun was made?

Understanding Western Field Production

Western Field shotguns weren’t actually manufactured by Western Auto. Instead, they were made by various other companies, including:

  • Ithaca
  • Stevens
  • Mossberg
  • Savage
  • Browning
  • Remington

These companies produced shotguns for Western Auto under the Western Field brand name. To accurately date your Western Field shotgun, you need to determine which manufacturer made it.

Identifying the Manufacturer of Your Western Field Shotgun

Several key features can help you identify the manufacturer of your Western Field shotgun. These can include:

  • Model Number: Each manufacturer had specific model numbers that were often unique to Western Field shotguns. For instance, a Western Field model 300 was typically an Ithaca-made shotgun.
  • Serial Number: While not always conclusive, serial numbers can sometimes be traced back to a specific manufacturer and production period. Look for the serial number on the barrel or receiver.
  • Barrel Stamps: The barrel of your Western Field shotgun may contain stamps indicating the manufacturer, gauge, and other important details.

Using Resources to Date Your Western Field Shotgun

Once you’ve identified the manufacturer, several resources can help you narrow down the production date of your Western Field shotgun. These include:

  • Blue Book of Gun Values: This book lists the values of various firearms, including Western Field shotguns, and provides information on their production dates.
  • Online Forums: Firearms forums often have dedicated sections for Western Field shotguns, where knowledgeable collectors can assist in identification and dating.
  • Manufacturer’s Archives: Some manufacturers, such as Ithaca, have online archives that may contain production records for Western Field shotguns.

A Note on Serial Number Dating

While serial numbers can be helpful in dating a Western Field shotgun, it’s important to note that they aren’t always accurate. Manufacturing practices varied over time, and manufacturers may have reused serial numbers or used irregular numbering systems. Therefore, it’s essential to rely on multiple sources of information to get the most accurate date.

Preserve Your History

Dating your Western Field shotgun not only helps you understand its history but also increases its value. By knowing the manufacturer, model, and approximate year of production, you can better appreciate the craftsmanship and historical significance of your firearm. So, grab your shotgun and start your journey of discovery!

Article By Fr4nk