16 gauge double barrel shotgun

Question
My father owns a 16 gauge double barrel shot gun model 311A  MA55.We would like t know what year this model was made, gun has 26 inch barrels. Thank you for your help in this matter.

Answer
Johnnie,

I need a bit more information to answer your question.  

First, you'll need to actually check something on the gun itself.  First, make sure the gun is UNLOADED.  Then making sure the gun is pointed in a safe direction, you'll need check the area between the trigger and the hinge pin.  There should be a circle with a number and letter stamped inside.

If the letter is:

A to N, the year of manufacture is indicated by the letter... 1949 = A, 1950=B, 1951=C...all the way to 1962=N
P = 1963
R to V = 1964 - 1968

That will give you the year of manufacture.  Prior to 1968, serial numbers were not required on long guns and most didn't have one, so I can't give you any more than the year.  26 inch barrels are pretty standard so that would not narrow it any further.

Hope this helps you out...

Best,

Doug Little