Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database Best

Often seen on "Champion" series shotguns and late revolvers. Identifying the Three Main "Safety Automatic" Models

This guide serves as the ultimate resource for identifying and dating your Iver Johnson revolver. We will explore where to find hidden serial numbers, how to decode production years, and ultimately, the databases and resources available to unlock your firearm's past.

Before cross-referencing your firearm with production timelines, you must look for the . Iver Johnson stamped numbers in multiple places, but visible exterior numbers were often truncated or omitted entirely on early or budget models. Check these crucial locations:

: Octagon barrel, solid frame, non-fluted cylinder.

Dating an Iver Johnson revolver is often difficult because the original factory records were destroyed in a fire Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database BEST

Here are three ways to check:

Because the original company records do not exist as a single chronological master list, firearms historians like Bill Goforth meticulously reconstructed the production records. This comprehensive guide provides everything needed to locate your serial number, decode the letter prefix, and determine if your antique handgun is safe for modern ammunition. Step 1: Locate the Official Serial Number

found on the left side of the grip strap (under the grips) or under the top strap. Because many early Iver Johnson records are incomplete or scattered, collectors rely on specialized databases and reference guides like those by expert W.E. Goforth Iver Johnson Serial Number & Identification Guide 1. Locate the "True" Serial Number

💡 Most Iver Johnson revolvers found today are "Black Powder" models (pre-1909). Firing modern "Smokeless" ammunition in these can cause the gun to explode . Often seen on "Champion" series shotguns and late revolvers

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Once you have the true serial number from under the left grip, look at the beginning. The key to dating your Iver Johnson is this letter prefix.

While a full database is beyond the scope of this guide, the following tables are compiled from verified examples and expert sources to give you a powerful starting point for your search.

The most common location for a quick check. Dating an Iver Johnson revolver is often difficult

This location usually lacks the letter prefix and may be a duplicate. Under the top strap: Check inside the frame window when the cylinder is open. 📅 Safety Automatic Model Identification

The ultimate resource for identifying and dating an antique Iver Johnson firearm is a comprehensive . These vintage top-break and solid-frame handguns, famously marked by the iconic "Owl’s Head" grips, were manufactured by Iver Johnson’s Arms & Cycle Works in massive numbers between 1894 and the late 20th century. Because the factory frequently recycled serial number sequences across different years, decoding the exact date of manufacture requires matching physical traits, patent dates, and letter prefixes against historical records.

This is the most visible location. However, this number often excludes the mandatory letter prefix on earlier models.

Now that you have the true serial number, a better understanding of the code, and a sense of the revolver's era, you need the most accurate resources to finish the job.