US model of 1917 Winchester help

[jwill130]

Sorry for the crappy pics. Here are some markings ive found on the rifle so far

 

[palmettomoon]

I really really hope that stock has not been shortened at the butt. It is marked "W" and the sub inspection mark (137) is present, although I'd be happier to see that "W" much larger than the one pictured. I'd love to see any stamps on the wrist underneath, near the trigger and maybe any on the left side of the stock underneath the rear sight protector/receiver.

Your rifle would have been manufactured (receiver) 22-Feb-1918.

 

[jwill130]

These are all the markings I see on the bolt, bolt handle, and rear tang area. Is there a way to tell if the stock has been shortened?

 

[jwill130]

One more I found

 

[jwill130]

Well bad news. I took and popped that plug out and stock has been cut at some point. The butt plate doesn’t fit. I guess I’ll have to put something else on it unfortunately. Anyone have any ideas?

 

[palmettomoon]

Dang.

 

[jwill130]

Dang.

It sucks but it’s okay. This rifle along with a JM stamped marlin 336 will be passed down to my two boys so it’s okay, they are staying in the family. I guess I’ll get another shape to fit recoil pad and try and make it as nice as I can

 

[spencer60]

You could always pick up a replacement stock at Sarco or someplace.

You're not looking at collector value on it, and unless your Granddad carved his initials in it or something that make it important to you personally, that's the way I'd go. Keep it looking authentic.

 

[richardbrentm]

You could always just get a piece of walnut and cut a thin shim, then glue it, trim and oil. It wouldn't be "Original", but it would be pretty close to it, if done well.