How to date a western field shotgun
Professional appraisal
If all else fails, consider consulting a professional firearms appraiser. They have extensive knowledge and resources to help identify and date firearms. While there may be a cost involved, a professional appraisal can provide accurate information about your Western Field shotgun's history and value.
Examining features and design changes
Even without serial numbers or clear manufacturer markings, the features and design of your Western Field shotgun can provide clues about its age, right? Researching catalogs and historical information about different shotgun models sold by Montgomery Ward during various periods can be invaluable. listen, look for distinct features like the type of choke (fixed vs. adjustable), the style of the stock, the length of the barrel, and the type of action (pump, bolt-action, break-open). These features often evolved over time, and comparing your shotgun's features to known models and their production dates can narrow down the timeframe.
Cross-referencing with montgomery ward catalogs
Montgomery Ward catalogs are a treasure trove of information. If possible, search for online archives of Montgomery Ward catalogs. By searching for the Western Field model that most closely resembles yours, you can potentially find the years it was sold. This will at least give you a range of years the shotgun was manufactured.
Deciphering proof marks
Proof marks are stamps applied to firearms to indicate that they have been tested to withstand a certain pressure level. These marks vary depending on the manufacturer and the country of origin. Researching these proof marks can help confirm the manufacturer and even the country where the shotgun was originally produced. Many resources online specialize in identifying proof marks found on firearms. Use high-resolution photos of your shotgun's markings to assist in your research. Remember that some Western Field shotguns were sourced from European manufacturers as well.