The "S" stamp was only used by Hunter Arms in two instances; separately from the serial number to denote the word "Specialty", as in "Specialty Grade"; and in conjunction with a serial number to denote Marlin era production (1945-1950). Since this is obviously a Field Grade, the use of the letter stamp "S" to denote a Specialty Grade would not apply. As to the serial number, the "FW" serial number prefix was never stamped on the barrels, just the water table of the frame (as in "FWSxxxxx); and from the shape of the lockplate and location of lockplate screws we know this is obviously a Featherweight or FW frame. It is impossible for me to ascertain from the photos, but if this gun does indeed have the high "single sighting plane" rib feature, that feature was first cataloged by Hunter Arms in 1938 meaning that this would definately be a later gun (Marlin retained that feature after acquisition of the gunworks), and the serial number would indicate a Marlin era gun as Marlin began their serial number series at "FWS 1". Have the dealer forward a picture of the watertable with a ledgible serial number view; having that number complete ends any further production period confusion. I also noticed that the barrel flats have a chambers stamp. Only a portion of that stamp is visible, so I can't make out the chamber length; but with the exception of 3" chamber stamps, Hunter Arms seldom stamped a gun with the chamber length. On the other hand, it is not uncommon to see chamber length stamps on Marlin era guns. Again, get the full serial number off the frame and you will have your answer.
Last edited by topgun; 04/27/10 11:52 PM.
