A unique alphanumeric sequence stamped on each Winchester Model 94 lever-action rifle provides a key to unlocking its manufacturing date, and often other historically significant information. This sequence allows collectors and enthusiasts to pinpoint a rifle’s place within the model’s long production history, potentially revealing details about its original configuration and intended market. For example, a sequence beginning with a certain letter might indicate production in a particular decade.
Determining the age and specific variation of a Model 94 is crucial for accurate appraisals, historical research, and ensuring proper parts and ammunition are used. These identifiers are essential for verifying a rifle’s authenticity and provenance, protecting collectors from counterfeits and misrepresented firearms. Understanding the historical context provided by these sequences allows for a deeper appreciation of the Model 94’s enduring legacy in American firearms history.