# 3232 - Remington 521-T Rifle
11/29/00
Doug Vacaville CA

What looks like a "D7(or Z)79" on left side of barrel forward of the breech and what looks like an upside down "8" and number 27 on the right side. Indicates it will fire shorts, longs and long rifle. It has a Weaver model B6 steel scope, manufactured in El Paso, Texas. Flip down rear sight. How old is this rifle, are they common? It is really in great shape, is complete with original leather sling. Is it worth keeping?

Answer:
Doug- Anyone interested in factual information on any Remington made guns should get a copy of the superbly researched and illustrated Remington: America's Oldest Gunmaker by Roy Marcot.

In the late 1930s, Remington came up with the idea of a "family" of guns using as many parts in common as possible to minimize production costs. Between 1937 and 1940 they introduce the "500 series" of.22 rifles, including the Model 510 single shot; Model 511 with box magazine; Model 512 with tubular magazine; Model 513S sporter with box magazine and the Model 513T target model with a box magazine. These were all bolt action models, and they also had the Model 550 which was a semi-automatic. All these models were included in Remington's line after WW2 and remained in production into the 1960s. Following WW2, Remington saw the need for smaller rifles for younger shooters. This resulted in the introduction of the Model 521T "Junior Special Target Rifle" in July 1947, lighter and cheaper than the 513T, but using many of the same 500 series parts. The 513T was discontinued in December 1968 after 66,338 were made.

The barrel markings you describe are inspector markings and possibly part of Remington's date code which everyone else seems to be able to figure out, but has always mystified me. Serial numbers were not required in the U.S. prior to the Gun Control Act of 1968, and production of the 513T ceased before it became effective, so lack of serial number is correct.

It is worth noting that despite all guns made in the last 32 years being serial numbered, the gun-ban extremists cannot really cite any cases where crimes have been solved by tracing guns by serial numbers. Criminals seldom leave their tools at the scene, unless they were stolen anyway. On the other hand, you cannot achieve registration of all guns unless they have serial numbers. Of course, you cannot achieve gun confiscation without registration. Be patient, the anti-gun people are. A frog dropped into boiling water will leap out. But, if placed in cool water on a stove, they will sit there until they boil to death. Anyone else feel it getting hotter? Better get deeply involved in politics at all levels if you expect to keep your Model 513T any longer. These guns were made especially for use by CHILDREN, no less! You must be a perverted child molester if you own such an evil instrument of the devil! Far fetched? Maybe not. John Spangler

# 3223 - Cooey Rifle
11/29/00
George Smithers B.C. Canada

Mfg. by Winchester Cobourg Ontario Canada This Rifle has been in our family as long as I can remember, and now our gun laws demand we register our rifles. To do this I need a serial no. I cannot find it. Can you help me ? Also how old would this rifle be ? Thank-you very much for your time and, hopefully, your information. G.

Answer:
George- Cooey Machine and Arms Co., Ltd operated in Coburg, Ontario, Canada from 1903 to 1961. They produced various types of .22 rifles and some inexpensive shotguns, mainly for the Canadian market, and there is minimal collector interest in their products, so prices are generally in the $75-150 range depending on condition, but will be slow sellers, especially now that law abiding gun owners in Canada are selling a lot of their guns (even though the criminals re not getting rid of theirs.) In 1961 Cooey was bought by Winchester, and commenced production of Winchester arms for sale in Canada. Prior to 1968 guns were not required to be serial numbered, at least in the U.S., and probably elsewhere. Nearly every boy received a .22 rifle and safety instruction on how to use it in those days, and there was virtually no criminal use of guns by kids. The problem is not with easy availability of guns, but the failure to demand civilized behavior from young people. Politicians are idiots (on both sides of the border) and less trustworthy than armed criminals. John Spangler

# 3342 - RG Pistol
11/29/00
Steve, Anderson, SC, USA

I purchased a 25 cal. pistol in 1971 and it has been sitting in the closet all these years. It was made by RG Industries in Germany and inported into Miami. I want to know if this gun is safe to shoot. I have heard that RG Industries guns were of poor quality. Is this the case with the one I have identified here. Is it usable?

Answer:
Steve, you are wise to be concerned, and you are correct, RG firearms were cheaply made and of poor quality. I can not tell you if your pistol is safe, have it checked by a competent gunsmith before firing. A better solution may be to save your RG until the next firearm buy back program in your area, and turn it in. Selling your RG to the anti-gun fanatics will have several benefits:

1. You will be decreasing funds available to deluded, individuals who want to dismantle our constitution.

2. You will be responsibly disposing of a firearm that is of questionable quality and safety.

3. You can apply the proceeds of the sale to the purchase of a better quality firearm.

Insist to be paid in cash, don't accept a coupon or credit for merchandise. Marc

# 3224 - Joslyn Carbine
11/25/00
Ken , Alexandria VA US

JOSLYN FIREARMS COSTONINGTON CONN 1864On loading unit the number 11204On bottom of butt plate US On barrel opposite above information the initials G. W. S. Any information would be greatly appreciated, gun is in excellent condition too.

Answer:
Ken- About 12,500 Model 1864 Joslyn Carbines were produced during the final months of the Civil War, and about 3,500 of the nearly identical Model 1862.. About two thirds of both types were purchased by the federal government to arm "Yankee" cavalry troops, and the remainder purchased by states or private soldiers. These were a rugged, simple, and popular design that used a .52 rimfire cartridge about the same as the Spencer cartridge. The Joslyns were sold as surplus after the Civil War and most were sent to France for use in the Franco Prussian War of 1870. Springfield Armory also bought 300 Joslyn Breech mechanisms and used them to make full length rifles. These were the first U.S. military breech loading cartridge rifles made at Springfield Armory, but very few collectors have ever heard of them. John Spangler

# 3228 - Unknown Gun
11/25/00
Dan, Missoula, Mt.

I bought this gun in a antique shop. It looks like an old Dueling gun style Flint Lock. The style that a Pirate would stick in his belt. It is a little rusty but in very good condition. The trigger mech. still works fine. It still has the Ram Rod that slides under the barrel. No markings at all on it ..How could I get this guns history and make and how much it might be worth? Thank you for helping Dan Rutherford

Answer:
Dan- Wow! Could be just about anything, but any guess has as much chance of being wrong as right. If you sent a photo we might be able to come up with a plausible identification. Your best bet is to take it to a gun show and see what the people there can tell you. There is one GREAT gun show in Missoula every year at UM, usually in August. This year you were all busy stomping out forest fires, but maybe next year you can take your gun to the show. There are some other shows held in Missoula from time to time, but not nearly in the same class as the big one. John Spangler

# 3339 - Mauser Number 511XXX
11/25/00
sarrick@adelphia.net

#1206 asked about their Mauser and you responded that it was probably military issued and produced around 1934-40. Any idea of the history of the model 511XXX? It was also obtained through a capture and I do have the holster.

Answer:
Sarrick, I thought that Sarrick was Mr. Spock's father on Star Trek, maybe that was Sarek? You did not give us a lot to go by, no markings, not even your name (just an e-mail address) and only a partial serial number. You aren't one of those Florida butterfly voters are you? I think that I am as talented as those "honest" Democratic voting judges in Florida, so I will try to infer your real intent from your partial question. Your pistol was manufactured in 19XX and issued to Xxxxxx Xxxxxx who used it in defense of Xxxxxx against U.S. occupying forces in 19XX (just kidding). Even if you had provided us with better information, there are no records that I know of that would tell us your pistols history. It would have been possible to tell if the pistol is of police issue by the markings on the left hand side of the trigger guard. Live long and prosper. Marc

# 3334 - Agawam Arms Co.
11/22/00
Seth NY

I am trying to find information on a rifle I have manufactured by Agawam Arms Co. out of Agawam, Massachusetts. I don't know anything about its history and am interested in finding out all I can. Here is what I have: On the barrel, it reads M-68 .22 CAL SHORT, LONG, LONG RIFLE AGAWAM ARMS CO. AGAWAM, MASS. MADE IN USA PATENT PENDING. The rifle also has the serial number 12673 on it. Any information you could provide would be greatly appreciated. Also, if you know of where I could write to by either e-mail or regular mail to find out more about this rifle, I would truly be grateful.

Answer:
Seth- Sorry, I have no information on this company. Since it has a serial number I believe it was probably made after serial numbers were required (rather than at the maker's option) by the Gun Control Act of 1968. The M-68 may relate to 1968, but that is strictly a guess, but certainly has a post WW2 sound to it. You might want to call the public library in Agawam or the nearest large city and see if the reference librarian can help you find something in an old directory or business listing. If not there, try the city/county/state clerk or other office that handles business licenses or corporate names. They can tell you if the name/business is still valid, or perhaps when it ceased being used. All these folks answer strange questions like this every day and know exactly where to find such things (I hope!) John Spangler

# 3333 - Stonewall Jackson's Pistol
11/22/00
David

I met a lady this weekend who owned an antique shop, and said she owned a gun that was Stonewall Jackson's'. She told of how it was lost for many years and was found in a flooded safe in an abandoned cabin. It was mounted (and rusted) in a case with a picture of Jackson and a plaque with the guns serial number. I don't have the serial number but I can get it. She said she would sell it cheap, but how could we verify that it was his pistol? It was a black powder pistol, the barrel clicked down to be loaded with powder and ball.

Answer:
David- You are smart to ask how it can be authenticated as Stonewalls gun. The first step is to determine what type of gun it is, and when it was made. If made after June, 1863 it would have been a posthumous acquisition. If made prior to that, further research s needed. Jackson was a leader, and a former artilleryman, but this did not mean that he burdened Little Sorrel with dozens of assorted firearms for his own use or to give away to his troops. He likely had only a few personally owned guns, and a few more may have been presented by admirers. I believe that one thoroughly documented Jackson pistol is in the Museum of the Confederacy or another museum in Richmond, Virginia. The VMI museum in Lexington, Virginia, may have something as well, but I am not sure about that. But let us review the situation. We have an antique dealer in Kalifornia, supposedly hoping to make a profit, willing to give you a really good deal on a very rusty old pistol that belonged to a Confederate hero who died in Virginia. Now maybe a lot of cabins in Kalifornia have safes in them, but that sounds a little odd to me. Jackson was nearly worshipped by Southern citizens, and Confederate stuff routinely sells for big money. Apparently she has not been watching "Antique Roadshow" (before the unethical militaria guys got kicked off) or she is just one of the most generous antique dealers around. Sounds fishy to me, but don't let me talk you out of a really good deal. It could be genuine. But, I would not bet a lot of my money that it is. Send us a picture and serial number if you can, and we will be glad to give further free opinions. John Spangler-

# 3332 - Question From A Colleague
11/22/00

I am on (deleted) dot com as an expert in guns. I have been asked a question that has me stumped on a pinfire revolver. The questioner wants to know what years these pistols were made, what companies, what countries, and what price ranges for such pistols. I can't find any information at all. Any suggestions?

Answer:
Various pinfire rifles, pistols and shotguns were made in several other calibers ranging from 5mm (about .22 caliber up through 12 gauge. The most common use of pinfire ammunition was in small pocket pistols made in France or Belgium, although they were sold all over the world. Introduced about the same time as the copper cased rimfire cartridges, the pinfire lost favor by about 1880-1890 when cheap reliable rimfire and centerfire cartridges drove them from the market place. It is good to remember that Smith & Wesson's 1856 patent by Rollin White on a bored through cylinder for [what is now] a conventional cartridge inspired all sorts of innovative attempts to come up with evasions to allow use of some sort of cartridges instead of the old loose black powder and ball, or only slightly better combustible skin cartridges which had to be rammed into each chamber, and then a percussion cap placed on each nipple. These evasions included cartridges with the priming mixture in a "tit" projecting to the rear of the rounded cartridge, or a "lip fire" with a tab that sticks out on the side of the cartridge base. Only a few people collect pinfires, and there is only one good reference book (The Pinfire System by Smith and Curtis) but it would be an interesting and relatively inexpensive collection field. Hope this helps. John Spangler

# 3205 - La Coruna Spanish Mauser
11/18/00
John Bradenton FL

Very legible and readable: Fabrica De Armas above a crest with La Coruna 1947 below, also a diamond shape stamp on the right side of the stock with what appears to be some sort of a cross inside(not a swastika!) Was this rifle used by the Spanish Air Force and where can I get more info on it? It has all matching numbers and is in excellent condition. It is one of my favorite rifles, it is a little shorter than a regular rifle and handles easily and is well balanced.

Answer:
John- Spain adopted the Model 1943 Mauser in 7.92mm (8mm Mauser) to replace their M1916 Mausers in 7mm. The 1947 short rifle was indeed used by the Spanish Air Force, and rifles made for their use have a sort of boxy looking wing symbol on the receiver ring. They also made similar rifles for other Spanish military and police uses, and I suspect you have one of those. For more information on the literally hundreds of different Mauser models used by dozens of countries, I highly recommend "Mauser Military Rifles of the World" by Robert Ball. John Spangler

# 3213 - Flintlock Rifle
11/18/00
Norman, Bridgeport, CT

Hello, my name is Norman J. Clark and I found your website while looking for information about an old flintlock musket I have. My dad had it when I was a child and he died 20 yrs ago and it has been in the closet. He bought the gun when he was a young man and I guess in total it has been in my family for over 50yrs.The gun has no numbers, or names on it. The overall length is 45 inches and the only marking that it does have is some sort of bird behind the hammer on the side plate. The bird is almost like a stick figure. As I said the gun has been wrapped and in the closet for a number of years and I decided to see if I can find out any information on it. Any questions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Answer:
Norman- I suspect the symbol looks like a bee. The length is very short for an older blackpowder gun, but consistent with some made in the mid to late 20th century. I believe these were made in Belgium, and offered through Stoegers circa 1960-1970. Apparently the Belgian cleaned out a lot of old left over parts and made up some new ones where needed to put these together. I vaguely recall something about these being intended for sale in Africa or South American wilderness areas to natives prohibited from using modern firearms. This may or may not be accurate, but is best we can do without some photos. John Spangler

# 3308 - Hopkins And Allen C9
11/18/00
Susan Marion, IN

engraved Can you give me some idea of this guns value.

Answer:
Susan, The Hopkins and Allen company was founded in 1868 by S. S. Hopkins, C. W. Hopkins and C. H. Allen. The company got into financial difficulties and in 1898 was reorganized as the Hopkins & Allen Arms Co. A fire in 1900 set them back, and in 1901, they merged with the Forehand Arms Company. Manufacture of Hopkins and Allen firearms ceased in 1917 when the plant was taken over by Marlin-Rockwell Corporation for the war time production of Browning automatic rifle components. Hopkins and Allen was well known for the many models of inexpensive "suicide" or "Saturday night special" type revolvers that they manufactured over the years. I was unable to find a specific reference to a Hopkins and Allen model C9 in any of my books, but I can tell you that there is not a lot of collectors interest in Hopkins and Allen firearms. My guess is that value for your C9 is in the $100.00 or less range. Marc

# 3199 - Kettner Double Rifle
11/15/00
Robert VA Beach VA

Very fine engravings on receiver The history of the gun and value if possible . The gun is in excellent condition

Answer:
Robert- Franz Kettner operated in Suhl, circa 1891-1939, and an Edward Kettner operated in Cologne (Koln) circa 1890 and later, so perhaps the two are related or merged at some point under Franz's name. There is not yet any good reference material on the many fine German gunsmiths who operated prior to WW2, although we have heard someone is working on such a book. If your rifle has hammers, I would put it toward the earlier part of this time spread, and if hammerless, toward the later end. If it has crown over U proofmarks it is pre-1934 and if Nazi eagle proofs, then later.

Double rifles are a very specialized field, and a buyer will have to like the caliber, feel, condition, and looks of the gun. Unfortunately, classic European designs are not to the liking of most modern American shooters, and the ammunition may be excruciatingly hard to find. You only partially stated the caliber as 9.3x7 so it might be either 9.3x72R or 9.3x74R, both of which are hard to find, or some other obscure caliber. Usually the workmanship on the fine German guns is equal to the finest custom work available today, and the engraving is superb. The double rifles are pretty scarce, and I see probably 100 of the three barrel "drillings" (side by side shotgun barrels with a rifle barrel underneath) for every double rifle. Value is pretty much an individual decision between you and a buyer. Realistically, it will probably be a tiny fraction of what it would cost to get a similar gun made today. The buyer who likes the caliber, looks and feel, would probably pay several thousand dollars. The casual collector who thinks it is a "neat gun" and pretty enough that his wife won't complain too much might reluctantly go $1,000 or so.

You might want to take this to one of the gun shows in the tidewater area (Hampton Coliseum, or Va. Beach Pavilion sponsored by Southeastern Gun & Knife Shows, or the Richmond Fairgrounds "Great Southern Weapons Fair" sponsored by Courtney Smith). Some of the dealers there should be able to give you good advice. I have not done any of those shows since I left Virginia several years ago, but they often had dealers with high grade doubles (especially Mahlon Kelly from Charlottsville). I would recommend you show it to a number of people and do not sell to the first guy who makes an offer unless it is one you are very happy with. John Spangler

# 3202 - Krag Model 1894
11/15/00
Philip, East Brady, Pa USA

Stock has been sporterized. :( My Great Grandfather purchased this firearm from govt. surplus in the 1920's or 30's. I am very interested in U.S. history and because of the low serial number I wanted to know if this rifle has any important history. Thank you for any information.

Answer:
Philip- There is no specific history on your rifle's adventures in the U.S. Army. There are a number of rifles with numbers that are close that were in use by artillery units after the Spanish American War, and some that were in use by the 3rd Infantry prior to the War. Nearly all the M1894 rifles were updated to Model 1896 configuration and unaltered rifles are quite scarce and valuable. The quick way to check is to look on the receiver. The right hand side has a section about an inch and a half long between the bolt handle and the magazine. The extractor part of the bolt slides along the top of this. On the 1896 model they made a tiny notch about ¬ inch from the front of this part of the receiver, on the top. There is a little hump with a pin sticking out to the right of the extractor that will catch in this notch when the bolt is all the way back. This holds the bolt open so you can load it more easily without the bolt sliding shut. Two other features to check are the muzzle of the 30 inch barrel, which was flat on the 1894, and crowned on the 1896, and the buttplate which was straight at the bottom on the 1894, and curved forward at the bottom on the 1896. If your rifle does NOT have the 1896 features, it would be a great candidate for restoration. Otherwise it is probably a great deer rifle. Krags have one of the smoothest actions ever made, and even though most are now 100 years old shooters still love them. It is pretty amazing to realize that 100 year old guns are still so highly prized, and regularly used. I bet you cannot find many other 100 year old devices being used today. John Spangler

# 3295 - EBAC Pistol
11/15/00
Sam; Springfield, IL

slide marked: Pistolet Automatique: EBAC Marque Deposee Cal. 6.35 m/m Grips embossed with EBAC in triangle Safety marked "S" and "F" Can you tell me anything about it and any idea as to value?

Answer:
Sam, the initials EBAC were applied to the French Unique 6.35mm automatic which was also sold as Le Sans Pareil. The slide is marked PISTOLET AUTOMATIQUE EBAC CAL6,35M/M, and the grips are marked with EBAC within a diamond. I could not find any information as to what EBAC stands for, my guess is that it refers to the company who marketed these pistols. Values for EBAC pistols are in the $50 to $150 range depending on condition. Marc

# 3226 -
11/11/00
Rick, Binghamton, New York

At the bottom of the hand piece it has S.P scribed in the metal. D. I would like to know how old it is and where it's from.

Answer:
Rick, you did not give me much to go by, 7.65 is the caliber in millimeters (same as .32), not the model number. Without knowing the model, the most that I can give you is some general information. Your pistol was manufactured at Mauserwerke in Obendorf Germany, Mauserwerke was founded by Peter Paul and Wilhelm Mauser in 1869. Your pistol is likely one of 4 models, the 1910, the 1914, the 1934 or the HSC. The 1910 is a 9 shot pistol with a 3 inch barrel, fixed sights and checkered walnut or hard rubber grips, it was Mfg from 1910 to 1934. The Model 1914 was Mfg from 1914 to 1934 it is similar to Model 1910, with a 3.4 inch barrel. The Model 1934 was Mfg. from 1934 to 1939 it is similar to Model 1914, with a re shaped one piece wrap-around grip. Mauser introduced the HSC in 1938, it is an 8 shot double action pistol with a 3.4 in. barrel, available with a blue or nickel finish, fixed sights, and checkered walnut grips. Marc

# 3302 - Blue Steel
11/11/00
Ted

I came across a term that I was not sure of. Is blue steel the same as bluing a gun or pistol? Thank you for your help. Ted Ray

Answer:
Ted- Many people use the term to refer to guns in a general sense. ("Blue Steel and Leather" is a book on gun holsters as an example.) Actually steel can be blued by a variety of chemical or heat processes, sometimes done specifically to achieve a desired color, and other times as the byproduct of a treatment to harden or otherwise heat treat the steel without caring about the color. Bluing is a commonly used method to protect the surface of steel objects from rusting and it can be found on various tools, parts in machinery etc. Actually achieving a good blue color is pretty difficult and there are dozens of different methods that people use. Good gunsmithing books usually have a few. Brownell's sells all sorts of chemicals for bluing. a book by Robert Angier "Firearms Bluing and Browning" is loaded with recipes for various witch's brews to try at home or in the shop (and the safetly warnings to be observed as well!) Hope this helps. John Spangler

# 3303 - Gun Sale Info
11/11/00
Ron

I am going to a rifle sale that features some old rifles. Among them are Winchester 66, 76, 73, 86, 92, a Balls Patent carbine. A Colt Lightning , Sharps repeaters, Springfield Civil War muskets, and a Smith carbine. How do I find out what these are worth before Friday 15. Please help me. Thanks

Answer:
Ron- You need to call around to your nearby bookstores and see if one has "Flayderman's Guide to Antique American Firearms and their Values." It will run about $35 and will be the best investment you ever made. Your library may have a copy you could look at. If this is an auction, be careful, I have seen some real junk sold at ridiculous prices by some shady operators. I have also heard of some good deals at others. Although you sometimes can get good deals at auctions, and the natural instinct to save money is strong, it is often better to buy from reputable dealers who know what they are selling, describe it accurately, price it fairly, and stand behind it. You may not save a lot, but you will surely lose a lot less! Good luck. John Spangler

# 3291 - Brass Belly Winchester
11/8/00

I recently acquired a lever action Winchester that has brass instead of regular metal for the area where it is loaded. I believe it is called a "brass belly". On the barrel it says "WINCHESTER - REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT." and below that 'KING'S - IMPROVEMENT - PATENTED - MARCH 29. 1866 OCTOBER 16.1860." The serial number on this rifle is 152569. I believe it is a 44.40 caliber. What can you tell me about it? Was the use of brass extensive? I am not sure of the model. It is in excellent shape with approximately 90 -95% of the original bluing still on it. With a little elbow grease the brass polished out very nicely. The stock and fore end appear to be original.

Answer:
Keith- Your Model 1866 rifle (or carbine depending on barrel length) was made in 1880. These are in .44-40 caliber but I would not damage the value by shooting modern ammunition in one. I have never heard the term "Brass belly" before, but these are often called "yellow boy" rifles. The Henry and Model 1866 rifles used brass receivers, and the later 1873 models switched to steel. These are valuable collector guns. Depending on exact model, any special features and especially condition, the value will run from about $2,500 for one in NRA antique good condition to over $6,000 for one in NRA antique fine condition and even higher for really spectacular examples. However, collectors really like the dull or brass patina and your elbow grease probably removed about $300 to $500 in value. (It is still okay to wash dishes and clean your car, but leave the guns alone!) If you decide to sell this, let us know, we would be glad to help you find a good home for it. John Spangler

# 3292 - S&W No.1 .22 Revolver
11/8/00
Keith

I was wondering how I might go about learning more on a small gun that has been in the family for a long time. It is a S & W 7 shooter. It is small, about 6 inches in length. Inscribed on the cylinder is: Patented April 1855 & June 1857. Do you know anything about this type of weapon? My father found it between the walls of an old house he tore down back in the thirties in New York State. Any help would be appreciated.

Answer:
Keith- Sounds like a Smith & Wesson Model No. 1, First (or perhaps Second) issue revolver. About 125,000 were made circa 1857-1868. They are nice collectors items and in NRA antique good condition will retail for about $600 if the first issue or $175 for the second issue. The first issue has a circular sideplate on the left side of the frame with a screw in the center. The second issue sideplate is more of a rectangular shape with rounded corners, not a perfect circle. Although these are .22 caliber rimfire and modern ammunition will fit in them, it is not safe to shoot modern smokeless ammo in these old guns made for weaker black powder ammo. Let us know if you decide to sell. John Spangler

# 3293 - German Helmet
11/8/00
Audrey

We were riding along interstate 95 and saw a man on a motorcycle with a helmet that looked like the Bavarian helmet of World War 1 with the spike on the top and the kids were wondering what the spikes were used for or what significance it had. None of the adults in the van were able to answer the question and I haven't been able to find any information about this topic. I was wondering if you would have any information relating to the German Helmets?

Answer:
Audrey- Helmets had spikes on the top for the same reason many young ladies wear short tops to show their belly buttons. It is a fashionable thing to do and after someone started a fad everyone else copied it. Of course a few years later seeing pictures of people dressed that way looks ridiculous. I do not have enough reference material on the German helmets to come up with a definitive answer, but similar spike arrangements and gaudy decorations on the front were also used by the U.S. Army, the British, and the French, and probably lots of others circa 1870-1910. For what it is worth, the motorcycle folks are probably using fiberglass copies that look good from 20 feet away at 65 mph but are not quite the same as an original, which would be very scarce and probably worth several hundred dollars. My favorite motorcycle headgear (seen at a recent gun show) has a helmet with a real coyote pelt (including the head) attached to it! If the legs flapping in the breeze (with claws still attached) don't injure the rider or passenger it would really be cool! John Spangler

# 3179 - Colt First Model Dragoon
11/4/00
Elaine, Newington, CT

Square brass trigger guard. My father purchased this gun 25 years ago from a dealer who wasn't sure of its value. How can I tell if it's the real thing or a replica? We've looked at some historical documents that lead us to believe that we have an original, the serial number falls into the right range, the photographs look like the one we have. I think an appraisal would be a worthwhile investment if we have an original, but I'd rather not spend the money if we don't. Any help would be appreciated.

Answer:
Elaine- Colt Dragoon pistols are rather valuable pieces, and that has created a demand that fakers have gleefully filled. Starting in the 1960s, replica percussion Colt revolvers began to be made in Italy which were nearly exact copies of the originals. (So good, that the first batch even had a big dent in the trigger guard, just like the sample they were given to copy. They fixed that after they were told how it should look before being damaged.) These replicas are usually easy to spot unless the really skilled fakers have been at work. For a gun in this range, I would advise people to buy from a dealer they can trust, but also get a written receipt stating that it is an original, made in a certain date range and offering a full refund. There is an old saying- "If you don't know your diamonds, you better know your jeweler." Since it is too late for that, an appraisal is a good move. Most appraisers work for a percentage of the value of the item, but some figure the charge other ways. Some will give a verbal opinion for no charge, which is worth about as much as the paper upon which it is not written. Since appraisers are expected to stand behind their appraisal and comments on authenticity (or lack thereof) as an expert witness in court if necessary, a formal written appraisal will always incur a charge of some sort. It is a sound investment. There are a number of well qualified appraisers and some shysters who cannot be trusted. In your area I would recommend Mr. Eric Vaule in Bridgewater, CT. His phone is (860) 354-6335. He has an excellent reputation and expertise in Colts. An appraisal from him would be useful if you ever had to file an insurance claim, or if you decided to sell. If it turns out to be a fake, you will at least know not to worry about the gun as much. My hunch is that it is probably a real one, and I would recommend you get the appraisal. John Spangler.

# 3188 - Stevens 416-2 .22 Rifle
11/4/00
Tim Hazard KY, USA

stamped on Barrel it has the word STEVENS then it has a circle with an "X" in it and the words BARREL it also has a circle with flames coming off it, and the words U.S. Property also stamped on it. I would like to know what the circle with the x means and also what the circle with the flames mean and if this rifle was used in the military for any reason and if possible the year it was made

Answer:
Tim- The Stevens 416-2 rifle was a medium quality target rifle in commercial production prior to WW2, comparable to the Winchester Model 75 and the Remington 513-T. In smallbore shooter language, "X" refers to a center shot in the 10 ring, or what many people would term a bullseye. Therefore "X" is frequently used in smallbore target stuff to entice people to buy the products on the assumption that it would contribute to their scoring "X's". Other examples are "EZ-X" brand target ammo, and Ten-X shooting jackets. The "circle with flames coming out of it" is usually called an "ordnance bomb, or flaming bomb". This is the mark used by many military ordnance or artillery people around the world with some variations in the details. It has traditionally been used by the U.S. Army's Ordnance Corps to identify ordnance items and as an inspection mark. The U.S. Property marking is to make it real obvious that while this may look like a commercial product, it belongs to the U.S. Government and should not be in civilian custody.

Just before and during the first part of WW2 large contracts were made for several types of .22 rifles for training purposes. Steven first military orders for the 416-2 came in September 1941. By the time production ceased in 1943, some 10,388 were delivered at a cost of $17.98 each.

These are good collector items, and we recently added a good reference book on U.S. Military .22 rifles to our book page. John Spangler.

# 3240 - Llama Parts
11/4/00
Mark, Arroyo Grande, CA

LLAMA Gabilando y Cia Victoria (Espana) Cal.22 on left side of slide 20LLAMA Espcial on right side of slide Gun seems to be in great shape but there are a couple things I would like to fix up on it. I found this in my grandfathers drawer after he died so I don't know anything about it. Any idea if you can still get parts

Answer:
Mark, Over the years, Llama has manufactured a wide range of models just about all of which are based on the John M Browning Colt M1911 design. Early pre 1945 Llamas are usually marked 'Gabilondo y Cia Elgoibar (Espana)' while post 1945 production firearms are marked 'LLAMA Gabilondo y Cia Elgoibar (Espana)' with the word 'LLAMA' twice the size of the rest of the print. The Model 11. (Originally called the Llama Especial), differs only slightly from most other Llama models in that the grip and slide are longer and the base of the grip goes forward at the bottom front to form a finger rest. I have never been a big Llama fan and I can't say that I would reccomend that you waste money to purchase replacement parts. Your money would much better spent investing in a Colt, Ruger or a used S&W (OldGuns.net supports the boycott of new S&W products). If you decide to waste your money on parts, try Gun Parts Corp. there is a link to them on our links page. Marc

# 3272 - Need Info On An Old Gun
11/1/00
Don

Six-shot revolver. Four overlapping circles and oriental writing on the right side (view attached picture). My Dad gave me this old Army pistol that his Uncle gave him. Unfortunately my father past away before I could get the history. If you can help I would appreciate it. Thanks Don

Answer:
Don you have a Japanese 26 Nijukou Nenshiki (Type 26 Revolver). The T-26 is a 6-shot hinged-frame double-action revolver, so named because it was adopted by Japanese armed forces in the 26-th year of the Meiji Era (1893). Generally, the quality of material and workmanship used in T-26 revolvers is quite good, one major drawback of the design is that it has no hammer spur so it cannot be thumb-cocked for single-action firing. The T-26 is chambered for a special (hard to find) 9mm rimmed cartridge of Japanese origin, which has never been used by any other nation. T-26 revolvers were manufacture from 1893 until some time in the early 1920s, when the revolver was replaced by an automatic pistol. The T-26 remained in use by second-line troops until 1945. Most specimens seen today were "liberated" during or shortly the Second World War. Marc

# 3279 - Enfield Bayonet Wild Goose Chase
11/1/00
Ron

I have a beautiful M1917 Enfield rifle that is dated 1919. I'm looking for a bayonet and scabbard that will match that year (1919). Both should be in great shape. Any help would be appreciated.

Answer:
Ron- You are on a wild goose chase. Hundreds of thousands fewer bayonets were procured than rifles. About 2,193,429 rifles were procured by November 9, 1918, and perhaps as many as 2,520,000 by the final end of all clean up work. Total bayonet production was 1,565,644 from Remington (all from their Bridgeport works while they made rifles at Eddystone, PA, and Ilion, NY), and Winchester delivered 395,894. Bayonet production was lagging behind rifles in 1918, and additional makers were beginning to gear up for production when the war ended. Some of the disparity is due to the fact that with the signing of the Armistice November 11, 1918, virtually all weapons contracts were canceled. However, the rifle makers got permission to "clean up" work in progress and delivered a number of additional rifles, some as late as February, or perhaps even March or April 1919. They also delivered a lot of spare parts, including barrels which may have had late dates, but were not indicative of the manufacture date of the rifle as they were used in overhaul operations perhaps as late as WW2. Most M1917 bayonets are found dated 1917, and perhaps less than 10% dated 1918. Some collectors believe that the 1918 dates were only used a short time and they reverted to 1917 dates to indicate the model, as opposed to the date of manufacture. However, I have never seen anything in writing to back this theory up. In any case, I have never seen, or even heard of a 1919 dated M1917 bayonet, and I have been quite interested in minute M1917 details for many years. For what it is worth, the US contracts allowed for separate deliveries of the bayonets, unlike the British contracts which required that bayonets and scabbards to be shipped with each box of rifles. John Spangler

# 3278 - Colt 1911
11/1/00
Mario

Your site is awesome had to bookmark it for too much info in one night! Colt 1911 serial #54152. Patina would be the finish. Everything looks to be matching. 5 inch barrel. This gun was well used. My question, is it worth anything? I didn't pay much for it ($300.00). Mechanically great. Shoots well. It was worth the money to me it is just cool. Makes me want another. I have been captivated with firearms from an early age and just recently started to dabble in collecting (its great). Any info would be much appreciated. I know you guys must have a busy schedule so thank you in advance. Mario

Answer:
Mario- Glad you like the site. Hope you find gun collecting as interesting as we do. Your pistol Colt M1911 US Property serial number 54152 is documented as being used by the 5th Cavalry as of October 16, 1916 in the Mexican Punitive Expedition. A letter confirming this can be obtained from Springfield Research Service, although it is unlikely to have any more specifics as far as which soldier or battle history or anything really sexy like that. It was originally delivered to the Army September 6, 1913 in a shipment of 750 pistols to Springfield Armory from Colt in Hartford. If still all in original M1911 configuration and not rebuilt and refinished several times (as most were) this would be a really neat item. If rebuilt, it probably saw action in WW1 and WW2 as well. A quick and easy check is to look at the part of the barrel exposed when the slide is closed. If the letters H P are visible, it is probably all original. It is probably worth at least what you paid for it, and the history adds something too, although shooters don't really care about who else has used it in the last 90 years. John Spangler