First Year Model 8

[EnvoyToTheMolePeople]

Hello all, I recently acquired my first Model 8 in .35 rem. It's a 1300 serial, so I believe that puts it within the 1906 manfacture year. The exterior is pretty rough, and the bore is good up until the last two inches from the muzzle, where there is noticeable pitting. Oddly, the auctioneer tagged it as "Texas Rangers" although I have no idea why. I figured I'd join and post it here to learn a little more. I'd like to post more pictures, but the file size limit is stopping me.

[81police]

The 1300 range would certainly put it in the 1st year of manufacture, 1906. Congrats!

I've always believed that the very earliest production guns are the most beautiful.

Looks like yours had had either the original buttstock alrogether or the buttplate itself replaced with a later production one.

Those early "tear drop" safety levers look cool!

[EnvoyToTheMolePeople]

Yes I think the stock is probably a replacement, or else somebody got very creative with it. It has a distinct diamond shape inlet on either side and also the buttplate doesn't quite fit.

[Hibby83]

Welcom to the forum Envoy*

I really enjoy seeing the first year guns, gives me hope that I'll find one.hah

Hope to see more from you.

[EnvoyToTheMolePeople]

For sure! I like mine, but I'm also considering just selling it and hunting for a nicer example. We'll see how it works out.