The Savage Model 340, a classic .22 caliber rifle cherished by many, holds a special place in the hearts of shooters. Knowing the manufacturing date of your specific rifle can add to its appeal, enhancing its value and providing a deeper understanding of its history. However, unlike some firearm manufacturers, Savage doesn't stamp a readily decipherable date code directly onto the receiver. Pinpointing the exact manufacturing date requires a bit of detective work.
Understanding Savage Serial Numbers and Their Limitations
Savage serial numbers themselves don't directly translate into manufacturing years. The numbering system changes over time, and Savage hasn't publicly released a comprehensive serial number-to-date database. This makes precise dating challenging.
Methods for Estimating the Savage 340 Manufacturing Date
While precise dating is difficult, several approaches can help narrow down the production timeframe of your Savage 340:
1. Using the Serial Number Range and Historical Data:
This method relies on collecting information from various sources. Online forums, gun collector websites, and auction sites often contain information about Savage 340 serial numbers and their approximate production years. By comparing your rifle's serial number to those found in these databases, you can build a range of potential manufacturing dates. This method requires significant research and cross-referencing. Remember, the information found online is often anecdotal and should be treated with caution.
2. Examining the Rifle's Features and Components:
Certain features on the Savage 340 can provide clues. Minor changes in design, materials, and markings occurred over the years. Comparing your rifle's features – such as the stock material, sight type, and receiver markings – to known images and descriptions of Savage 340s from different eras can offer valuable insights. This approach is highly dependent on your access to detailed historical information and photographs of Savage 340s from various periods.
3. Contacting Savage Arms Directly:
While Savage may not provide an exact date, contacting their customer service department might be helpful. They could potentially offer assistance in narrowing down the production timeframe based on your serial number. Be aware that their response may be limited due to the age of the firearm and the lack of a readily available database.
4. Consulting with Firearm Experts and Collectors:
Experienced gunsmiths or collectors specializing in Savage firearms might possess additional knowledge or resources. Their expertise in identifying subtle variations in Savage 340 models across different production years could prove invaluable. Engaging with the community can significantly expand your research capabilities.
The Importance of Careful Research
Remember, any date you arrive at using these methods should be considered an estimate, not a definitive date. The lack of a readily accessible official database makes precise dating challenging. The more sources you consult and the more details you can gather, the more accurately you can approximate your Savage 340's manufacturing date.
Conclusion
Determining the precise manufacturing date of a Savage 340 requires patience and thorough research. While a definitively accurate date might remain elusive, combining the strategies mentioned above will bring you closer to understanding the history of your cherished firearm. Happy hunting!
