mosin nagant rifle guide to proofs and markings

8/13/2019 Mosin Nagant Rifle Guide to Proofs and Markings

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Mosin Nagant Rifle Guide to Proofs and

Markings

All content copyright © 7.62x54r.net

The numerous markings and proofs found on Mosin rifles can be overwhelming to the new collector. Often the meaning is unknown even to the most

knowledgeable researchers. However, many are known and they often reveal a lot about the individual rifle. The more commonly encounteredmarkings are shown here with brief explanations of their meanings.

Russian and Soviet Mosin Nagant Marks Including marks from Chatellerault, Remington, and New England Westinghouse

Finnish Mosin Nagant Marks Including a few with uncertain meanings but obvious Finnish origin

Other Country's Mosin Nagant Marks Poland, Hungary, Romania, China, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, Germany, Serbia, Spain,

Turkey, United States, Yugoslavia

Unknown Mosin Nagant Marks Marks of varying rarity, including their country of origin when known

Mosin Nagant Serial Numbers Pictures illustrating the various serial numbering patterns of different countries

SA Marked Finnish Mosin Nagants Sizes, locations, and orientations of the SA mark

Finnish Marked Russian and Soviet Mosin Nagants SA, D, 41, Civil Guard, and POULUSTUSLAITOS marks

Mosin Nagant MO Marks Pictures, data and information on this mark with a sortable data table

Mosin Nagants with Painted Marks Pictures of marks from a variety of origins

Mosin Nagant Import Marks Pictures and information on import marks by various companies over the years

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinMarks.htm


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinMarks01.htm





http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinSerial.htm

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinRareSA.htm

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinRareFinnMarks.htm

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinMO.htm


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinImport.htm

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinCDsales.htm

http://7.62x54r.net/

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinCDsales.htm





http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinRareFinnMarks.htm

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinRareSA.htm











Russian and Soviet Mosin Nagant Marks


Marks Introduction

Row Column A Column B Column C

1

Chatellerault

M91

Izhevsk Imperial

M91 or Dragoon

Izhevsk

Cossack

2

Izhevsk pre-1928 Soviet

M91 or Dragoon

Izhevsk post-1928 Soviet

Dragoon or M91/30

Izhevsk post-1938 Soviet

M91/30, M38, or M44



http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/0106.jpg




















































M91 M91 M91 or Dragoon

6

Tula post-1928 Soviet

Dragoon or M91/30

Tula post-1937 Soviet

M91/30, M38, or M44

Intentionally left blank

7

Remington

Armory

1915-1917

Remington

Armory

1917-1918

New England

Westinghouse

Companyearly "curved logo" with large arc




























8

New England

WestinghouseCompany

late "curved logo" with small arc

New England

WestinghouseCompany

"straight logo"

New England

WestinghouseCompany

"straight logo", "stylized eagle"

See the New England Westinghouse Barrel Marks page for more detailed information.

9

Imperial Eaglefrom Peter the Great M91

Barrel shank

Imperial Eagle

from New England Westinghouse M91Barrel shank Imperial Eagle and Cyrillic PK

"Probaya Komissiya (Proof Commission)"Receiver and Barrel shank

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinNEW.htm
























10

Hammer & Sickle stamped over Eagle

ReceiverFox Arms logo

New England Westinghouse subcontractorReceiver

(courtesy of "Paul Reckamp")

KA3.

Cossack rifle mark

Barrel shank

11

Chatellerault mark

Barrel shank

Chatellerault mark

Side of tang

Chatellerault mark

Side of tang

12

Izhevsk Bow and Arrow (pre 1928)Barrel shank

Izhevsk Arrow in Triangle (post 1928)

Barrel shank

Soviet Crest

Barrel shank

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/tangChat4.JPG


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Chatmark.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Fox.jpg



































13

Izhevsk Bow and Arrow

Bolt body

Izhevsk Bow and Arrow

Cocking knob

Izhevsk Bow and ArrowSear/Bolt stop

14

Tula Hammer (pre 1928)Receiver

Tula Arrow in Star (post 1928)

Barrel shank





http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/PartIzh001.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/IzhBACK.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/IzhevskBowArrow.jpg
















15

Quality Control mark

Bolt body

Sestroryetsk ArrowTrigger

Sestroryetsk ArrowCocking knob

16

Tula Hammer in CircleBolt body

Tula Star

Bolt body

Tula Star

Cocking knob

17

Remington Circle R

Bolt body

New England Westinghouse E

Bolt body

New England Westinghouse N

Follower carrier spring

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/PartNEW001.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/WestinghouseE.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/TulaStarCK.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/TulaStar.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/TulaHammerCircle.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/SestroryetskArrow.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/PartSes001.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Unknown.jpg



































































18

Refurbishment markBarrel shank

Tula "S P" Sniper markBarrel shank

Tula "S N" Sniper markBarrel shank

19

Provisional black powder proof

Barrel shankFinal black powder proof

Barrel shank

Point of aim proof

Barrel shank

20

Concentric "00"

Accuracy proofBarrel shank

(information courtesy of Vic Thomas)

"00"replaced concentric "00" for a brief time

in the late '20s at Izhevsk

Accuracy proofBarrel shank

(information courtesy of Vic Thomas)

1891/59M91/59 cut down from M91/30

Barrel shank

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/00.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/00concentric.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/TulaSniperCH.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/TulaSniperCN.jpg



































21

MO with extra date

Ministry of Defense

MO with two extra dates

Ministry of Defense

"bisected diamond 54"Ukrainian refurbishment mark and date

Barrel shank

22

Tula Hammer and date (pre 1900)Tang

Tula Hammer and date (post 1900)Tang

Tula Star and date (post 1928)Tang

23

Izhevsk Bow and Arrow and date (pre 1928) Izhevsk Arrow in Triangle and date (post Tula Star and date stamped over








http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/RefurbUkraine.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MO3.jpg































Tang 1928)Tang

Izhevsk Arrow in Triangle and date

24

Sestroryetsk Arrow and date (2 digit pre 1900)

Tang

Sestroryetsk Arrow and date (3 digit post1900)

Tang

Training rifle mark

On top of tangAlso found on barrel forward of rear sight

25

Chatellerault Circle C and date

Tang

Chatellerault Circle P, no date

Tang

YYtraining rifle mark

M44 bayonet locking ring



http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/M44YY.JPG


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/tangChat.JPG



















26

New England Westinghouse M with arrow

(Can be other letters)On top of tang, no markings on bottom

Remington Circle R, no date

Tangcourtesty of Michael Coogan

Remington Circle R, no date

Tangcourtesty of Michael Coogan

27

Tula "hammer" cartouche with date

Stock

(courtesy of "doctundra")

Soviet "PCFCP" cartouche

Stock(courtesy of "CR Hound")

Soviet "CCCP" cartouche

Stock

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/SovietStock.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/TulaStock01.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/tangRem2.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/tangRem.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/tangNEW.JPG




























28

Tula "Arrow in Star" and dateStock

(courtesy of "JMG")

Arms depot/refurbishment mark

from a Soviet facility located in UkraineStock

Crown over Cyrillic "NP" possibly stock acceptance mark

under buttplate

(courtesy of "FinnFanatic")

29

Remington cartouche

Stock

NEW "English Contract"

Stock(courtesy of "Empire Arms")

New England Westinghouse cartouche with

dateStock (uncommon)(courtesy of Peter S.)

http://www.empirearms.com/



http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/NEWStock.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/EnglishContract.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Remstockmark.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/CrownNP.jpg
























30

Cyrillic letters - 2 in an oval

believed to represent a training schoolM91/30 stock (same rifle as to the right)

(courtesy of "JMG")YY

training markM91/30 stock (same rifle as to the left)

(courtesy of "JMG")

Sling maker's mark

Sling reinforcement (uncommon)

(courtesy of JMKDEVCO)

Finnish Mosin Nagant Marks


Marks Introduction


1

M91 SAT RIIHIMAKI

(courtesy of Steve K.)

SIG M24

Suojeluskuntain Yliesikunta

Bohler-Stahl M24





http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/SATRiihimaki.jpg


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/SlingMaker01.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/school02.jpg















































(Civil Guard) logo

2

"Christmas Tree" on M24 barrel shank

Meaning uncertain, possibly indicates barrelwas shortened from rear and rechambered

because of throat erosion

P-26 (or P-27) and S

Found on P-series relined barrels"S" stands for Salerno where

process was developed

Tikka M91

Early Tikkakoski logo1926 with date on bottom of barrel

3

Tikka M91 Tikka M91Late Tikkakoski logo

VKT M91Early VKT (Valtion Kirvaaritehdas) logo







































4

VKT M91

Late VKT logo

B M91 B/VKT M91

5

B/VKT/Liege M91 Tikka M27 VKT M27

6

SIG M28


Tikka M28 Sako/Sk.Y M28/30





















































































(Civil Guard) abbreviation (Civil Guard) abbreviation

7

Sako M39

Sako Logo

Sk.Y M39 VKT M39

8

B M39 Late Tikka M39 "Late Date" M39

9

"No maker, no date" M39 "No maker, 48" M39 "PSV", "Late Date" M39




















































































Meaning unknown

10

Early Tikka M39 Tikka M91/30 Tikka M91/30

11

Arms Depot 1 M28/76 target rifle

Intentionally left blank Intentionally left blank

12

Puolustuslaitos(Defense Department)

Used for 2 months in 1942

before the adoption of [SA]Barrel shank

Boxed SASuomen Armeija

(Finnish Army) property mark

Boxed SA tt stands for Taisteluvälinehallinto

(Ordnance Department)(information courtesy of Vic Thomas)
























































13

AV1 (stylized)

Arms Depot 1P-Series Barrel shank

Crossed Cannons and AV1

Early Tikka M91 Receiver

PR.2Unknown

Found on Tikkakoski M91 and M39 rifle barrel shanks partially obscured by the stock

14


(Civil Guard) acceptance stampBarrel shank

Suojeluskuntain Yliesikunta (Civil Guard)

logo and serial numberTikka M28 barrel shank

=II=

Inspection mark, can be I or III also

Civil Guard M24, M28, and M28/30 buttplates

15

Finnish Inspector's stamp"Kosti Eakola"

Barrel shank

Finnish Inspector's stamp

Barrel shankFinnish Inspector's stamp

Barrel shank




















































































19 BOHLER-STAHLM24 German barrel

on bottom hidden by stockM24 SIG barrel

shank above wood line

M28 SIG barrelshank below wood line

20 Suojeluskuntain Yliesikunta

(Civil Guard) district number preceded by "S"

Barrel shank


(Civil Guard) "double S" number

The second S indicates it was not aCivil Guard standard issue, but was

transferred to the CG from the Army.

Barrel shank


(Civil Guard) district number remarked

indicating transfer to another districtBarrel shank

21

HV

"Häiriövapaa"(Jamb Free)

M28/30 Magazine bodies

41

Meaning uncertain, found on captured Russianand Soviet rifles dated 1942 and earlier

Barrel shank

Stylized "VS"Subcontractor's Mark

M39 rear sight blade(info Vic Thomas)

22

Front sight blade height (0.68cm) Front sight blade height (0.81cm) SY superimposed over SAKO gear logo




http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/CGSYGear.JPG



















































































































































Allows armorer to verify that front sighthas not been altered in the field

Barrel behind front sight and top of sight bladeM39

Struck and re-numbered front sight bladeheight

Barrel behind front sight and top of sight bladeM39

Found on early M28s, uncommonBarrel shank

(courtesy of "DsrtVW")

23

SK.Y lined out with Sako logo added

M28/30, reason unknown(courtest of "Alsky")

NSD Nylands Södra

Found on M24s from the Nylands SödraCivil Guard District

(courtesy of "Guitarzan")

KLPKymen-Laakson Piiri

Found on M24s from the Kymen-LaaksonCivil Guard District

24

Stockmaker's mark

(can be other letters)Stockmaker's mark Stockmaker's mark



http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/skylinedout.jpg


















25

Stockmaker's mark

AV3 (Arms Depot 3)

Stock mark

Civil Guard district number

M28 Stock, under buttplate(courtesy of "CH")

26


(Civil Guard) logo and yearM28/30 Stock

SAKO logo

M39 Stock

SYT - Cut down M91 stock met standards

M28 Stock (in fingergroove)

27

Boxed SA

Suomen ArmeijaStock, likely done in field, atypical

(courtesy of "capnduane")SA/T and SA

Sling "dog collars"


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/SAdog.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/M39Stock.jpg


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/M28CGnumber.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/AV3.jpg






































(courtesy of "JMKDEVCO")

Other Country's Mosin Nagant Marks

All content copyright © 7.62x54r.netMarks Introduction


1

Polish M44

"Oval 11" country code

Hungarian M44

"02" country code, Hungarian crest

Romanian M44

Romanian crest, Arrowhead in triangle

2

Chinese T53Arsenal 296

Year and month of production"Shi" meaning "test" or "trials" after serial

"shi" meaning "test" or "trials"

1953 T53 following serial number Chinese T53Four character logo























































number

3

Chinese T53

Three character logoArsenal 26

Chinese T53

Arsenal 26 in triangle

Albanian M91/30

4

Polish no mark, no date

Tang

Hungarian 02 and date

Tang

Romanian arrowhead in triangle and date

Tang







































5

Chinese no mark, no date

Tang

Albanian no mark, no date

Tang

Chinese triangle 21 part mark

Bolt

6

Polish oval 11 part markBarrel band

Polish diamong P part markBolt

Polish diamond Y part markCocking knob

7

Romanian arrowhead in triangle part mark Romanian C in triangle part mark Hungarian 02 part mark




















































































11 Romanian "INSTRUCTIE"

Training rifleReceiver

Romanian "Ex" (Exercitiu)

Training rifle

Barrel shank (and sometimes receiver)

Struck and redated to 1916Crest of King Ferdinand of Romania

Allied aid to Romania during WWI

Barrel shank(courtesy of Greg Kirkman)

12

DDR (East German)triangle 1 property mark

Barrel shank

Bosnian shieldRomanian M44 barrel shank Kossuth crest

Hungarian Revolution of 1956Izhevsk M44 barrel shank

13

Made in USSRsometimes "URRS"

US importers mark used on rifles from SpainIndicates the rifle was used in

the Spanish Civil War

Belgian "Blindee" 8mm conversion

Barrel shank and receiver

R

Budapest Hungary arsenal rework mark





http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/BudapestR.jpg






http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/RomFerd.jpg















































































Barrel shank or receiver Receiver(courtesy of JMKDEVCO)

14

Czech arsenal marks (and Russian eagle)

M91/38 cut down from M91Receiver

"S*5"

Czech provincial issue mark

'5' is the Ceske Budejovice ProvinceReceiver

(courtesy of "Deros")"S*4"

Czech provincial issue mark

Receiver(courtesy of "finnmn")

15

Czech arsenal marks (and Russian eagle)

M91/38 cut down from M91Receiver

4.K.

8Austrian or German unit marking

4th Kompanie (Company)

Rifle(?) #8(courtesy of "finnmn"/picture and "kh"/info.)

4.K.

235Austrian or German unit marking, struck

through

see picture 9BReceiver

(courtesy of Arlon)

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/4K235.JPG



http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Czechprovince4.JPG





























16

LTII in ovalLuft Transport II

German unit mark

Barrel shank

DeutschlandGerman WWI property mark

ReceiverADMzDeutschR

German WWI depot mark

possibly Metz or MainzReceiver

(courtesy of JMKDEVCO)

17

DEPOT CUST

Custrin Depot

German WWI depot markReceiver

(courtesy of Peter S.)

CTN DEUTSCHCustrin Depot

German WWI depot markReceiver

(courtesy of "kalash")

ART DEP CUSTRCustrin Depot

German WWI depot mark

Receiver(courtesy of "Ron W")

18

Turkish sight elevations

Rear sight leaf(courtesy of "Mitch Stevens collection") U.S. Flaming Bomb

Reciever(courtesy of Arlon)

Eagle

X2U.S. Springfield Armory Inspectors mark

Barrel, New England Westinghouse

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/EagleX2.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/FlamingBomb02.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/TurkM91sight.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/ART%20DEP%20CUSTR.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/CTN%20DEUTSCH.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/depotcust.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/AdMzDeutschR.jpg













































































(courtesy of Arlon)

19

Polish diamond OWStock

Polish serial number (uncommon)Stock

Chinese serial number

late production (1960) T53Stock

20

Hungarian"circle B" stands for Budapest arsenal

"02" is the Hungarian country code

Stock Hungarian

Number in circleStock at rear sling slot

Romanian

Arrowhead in triangleStock

21

Romanian

Number in circle

Romanian

Triangle with multiple characters

Romanian

CR1 in square




















































































Stock on top of comb Stock Stock

22

Romanian "INSTRUCTIE"

with red bandStock

Romanian "INSTR"Stock

Romanian "EXERCITIU"

with black buttStock

23Yugoslavian 1.TRZ

1 Tehnicki Remontni Zavod

"1" stands for Cacak, Serbia

"TRZ" translates to "technical repair facility"refurbishment mark

Soviet M44 Stock

Yugoslavian BP 124 in triangleVojna Radionica 124

(Military Workshop 124)

refurbishment mark

Soviet PU sniper Stock(courtesy of "TANKERFRANK")

Spanish

MP8 property mark

Indicates use in the Spanish Civil Warwhen found on a Mosin Nagant

Stock


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/BP124.jpg





































24

Japanese

Training rifle from Hosei University in Tokyo

Czechoslovakian made carbine stock Czechoslovakian made carbine stock

25

Bulgarian "Pinecone"

Stock


Stock


Stock







































26

Bulgarian "Pinecone"Stock

Bulgarian "Pinecone"Stock

U.S. Flaming BombStock

(courtesy of "Empire Arms")

27

German Deutsches Reich

property mark, WWI

Austrian "W" mark

Stock heel

(courtesy of "doctundra")

Austrian "A" (adapted for 8x50R) mark

Stock(picture courtesy of "doctundra")

(information courtesy of "kh")




http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/StockA.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/StockW.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/DeutschesReich.jpg































Stock(courtesy of "Levi")

Unknown Mosin Nagant Marks



1

XO-48

Unknown, Soviet

XO-47

Unknown, Soviet

H *

Unknown, Soviet




http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/HU.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/XO47.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/XO48.jpg


















2

Triangle in circleUnknown, Soviet

KO in "tombstone"Unknown, Soviet

KO in "tombstone"Unknown, Soviet

(courtesy of "M240G")

3

Triangle 25

Unknown, Soviet?

Star on high wall flat

Associated with triangle 25

Unknown, Soviet?

Star 25Associated with triangle 25 and star

Unknown, Soviet?

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/triangle25c.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/triangle25b.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/triangle25a.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/KOtombstone.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/CircleTriangle.JPG




























4

T in ovalUnknown, Soviet

Found on M38sBarrel shank

T in oval

Unknown, Soviet

Found on Soviet M38Stock

41

Unknown, FinnishFound on Finnish captured Russian/Soviet

rifles

Barrel shank

5

"Circle OG"

Unknown, SovietStock

RAF over C (also M)

UnknownFound on M91 and M91/30 stocks

imported from the Balkans(courtesy of "wizdomthrift")

Crown over DUnknown

Extractor in parts lot, no rifle

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/CrownedD.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/RAFC.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/OG.JPG
























8

KY 56

Unknown, Finnish

KLP M24 barrel(courtesy of "Mike O")

Boxed 23 (2 is double struck)

Unknown, SovietM44 and M91/30 barrels M

Unknown, Soviet(courtesy of "M240G")

9

CP 1622

Unknown, SovietButtplate

(courtesy of "rocker98")

German Suetterlin script "N"

1894 Sestroryetsk receiver

(courtesy of "wizdomthrift")

Star A, Soviet?

Receiver

(courtesy of "Springbank")




http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/StarA.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/CP1622.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/M.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Box23.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/KY56.jpg





























12

P60

M44 barrel

(courtesy of "mupples") P875/Star

M38 receiver(courtesy of "mupples")

K over 2-9 in box

left rear of receiver(courtesy of "varosebud")

13 rB 2-51-9other numbers in same format known

carbine handguard(courtesy of Tombstone Arms)

rB 2-54-7 butt of stock

(courtesy of Tombstone Arms) 38/B/10 in bisected circle1932 Izhevsk M91/30 tang

(courtesy of Joe Stairrett, Post Rock Surplus)

14 Intentionally left blank Intentionally left blank

http://tombstonearms.com/






http://www.postrocksurplus.com/







http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/38B10.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/rb2519.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/K29.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/P875Star.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/P60.jpg











































circle BRussian/Soviet

Barrel shank

Mosin Nagant Serial Numbers All content copyright © 7.62x54r.net

Marks Introduction

Definitions:

Matching A rifle with all four serialed parts (barrel, bolt, floorplate, and buttplate) numbered the same. A matching rifle could be all stampedmatching or f orce matched .

All stamped matching A rifle on which all four serialed parts have stamped (as opposed to electropenciled ) numbers with alpha prefixes when

applicable.

Force matched A rifle that has had one or more parts renumbered to match the barrel. Evident by the presence of a lined out number, signs that a previous number has been ground off, electropenciled numbers, or numbers without an alpha prefix when applicable.

Mis-matched A rifle with one or more of the three secondary serialed parts (bolt, floorplate, or buttplate) numbered differently than the barrel.

Finn matched A Finnish built or marked rifle that has had the bolt renumbered to match the barrel. Although buttplate and floorplate numbers may

or may not match it would still be considered Finn matched. A rifle with a mis-matched number on the bolt body, but the last few digits of the barrelnumber on the bolt knob would still be considered Finn matched.

Electropenciled A method of etching parts with a serial number which was often used during refurbishment.

Alpha prefix The letters preceding the serial numbers on Soviet and Eastern European Mosin Nagants. They represent a block of 9,999 rifles andwere apparently assigned at random.














1Primary serial numbers on Mosin Nagant rifles, like mostEuropean firearms, are on the barrel, rather than the receiver as in the

United States.

2

Secondary serial numbers are found in three other locations onthe majority of Mosin Nagants.

Bolt

3 Magazine floorplate

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Ser011c.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Ser011b.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Ser023.JPG









4 Buttplate

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Ser011d.JPG



7Later Soviet production such as M38s, M44s, and M91/59s whichwere probably numbered during refurbishment

8 Soviet replacement stocks in pencil in the barrel channel

9 Soviet postwar M44 stocks stamped under the buttplate












12 Cleaning rods are not typically numbered but here is a case whereone is. It is not matched to the rifle and it is possible that it is not a

serial number, but represents something else.




13

Chatellerault prefixed the number with an "N" which stands for"number" and is not a letter found in the Cyrillic alphabet. It istechnically not a part of the serial number although it is usually

included in the serial number by US importers and FFL holders forrecord keeping purposes. Production started at serial number 1 and

ran straight through to the end of the contract.

14

Here is a renumbered bolt that has the "N" prefix on it. Since the "N"

was not part of the serial number it is usually not found on thenumbered parts other than the barrel. This was probably done in a

country other than Russia where the meaning of the "N" was notrecognized.







16Tula began to use "No" above the serial number when the barrel

markings changed in 1928. This also stands for "number" just as the"N".




17Izhevsk did not use the "N" prefix or the "No" symbol. Each yearstarted over at serial number 1.




19New England Westinghouse used "No." above the serial

number, which means "number" just as the "N". Production started atserial number 1 and ran straight through to the end of the contract.





20Remington used "No." above the serial number, which means"number" just as the "N". Each year started over at serial number 1.


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Ser065.jpg



21

Serial numbers repeated at the Russian/Soviet arsenals and atRemington each year as seen on this rifle and the one following.

1932 Tula M91/30, serial number 94015.




24 "E"

25 "F", most common of the letter suffixes

26

"T", very uncommon

Picture courtesy of JMKDEVCO.

27

Receivers are sometimes numbered but in most cases it was done by the importer. Russia, the Soviet Union, Eastern European

countries and China almost never numbered the receiver, including

rifles produced in France and the United States. An exception is theearliest Tula production as seen on this 1891 M91.

Picture courtesy of Robert Jensen.



















http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Ser012a.JPG





32

Cyrillic "alpha prefixes" came into use at Tula in 1937. Theseconsist of two letters followed by a number of four digits or less. The

prefixes were apparently assigned at random and changed when

number 9,999 was reached. No known records of the order in whichthey were assigned exist. Because of the random use of the Cyrillic

characters it is impossible to know whether a rifle was built early orlate in that years production. Also, "low" serial numbers have no

significance because it is not known whether their block was first,

last, or somewhere in the middle of the year. Occasionally a rifle isreported with a single Cyrillic character, but in all cases it has been

found that the second character was a Cyrillic "Z" which looks likethe number "3". Izhevsk began using this system in 1938.

See The Russian Alphabet page for a list of Cyrillic characters.

33

The same Cyrillic characters were also stamped on the other serialnumbered parts.

Bolt


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinCyrillic.htm
















35 Buttplate





36

Other letters are sometimes stamped above the alpha prefixes. These are translations of the Cyrillic characters and were

placed there by the importer (Century) to comply with BATFregulations. It is now a common practice for importers to assign a

new serial number to each rifle and the translations are not required

in that case.

See the Mosin Nagant Import Marks page for more information.











37

Restamped numbers on secondary parts of refurbished riflesoften don't have the alpha prefix.

Barrel with original number

38 Bolt














40 Buttplate




47

Unconventional serial numbers are also found on Mosin

Nagants.

Here is an uncommon case where the original serial number on the barrel is struck out and a new one added. It is a Czech M91/38 cut

down from an M91. An interesting side note is the "Serbian crown"mark to the right of the Izhevsk "bow and arrow" arsenal mark. The

secondary parts are matched to the new barrel number.

Barrel

48 Bolt










50 Buttplate








51

This 1897 Finnish marked Dragoon also has it's serial number linedout and a new one added. The only other number on the rifle is on the

bolt body and it does not match either the original or new numbers onthe barrel. Whether the renumbering was done in Finland or not is a

mystery.




53

This M91 has the barrel serial number divided in two parts by theIzhevsk arsenal mark. It also has the "N" prefix which is not usually

found on Izhevsk rifles. The barrel was probably renumbered inRomania when the date was changed and the crest of King Ferdinand

of Romania added. It is atypical.

Picture courtesy of Josh Norris.




60

Poland followed the Soviet pattern by using an "alpha prefix", butwith Latin letters rather than Cyrillic along with other

differences. The first year of M44 production, 1951, used a singleletter for the prefix and a five digit number beginning with zero forlower numbers. The numbering of secondary parts also followed the

Soviet pattern and included the bolt, floorplate, and

buttplate. Electropenciled or restamped numbers have not beendocumented on Polish parts but the sample is small.

Picture courtesy of JMKDEVCO.





61In 1952 two characters were used for the prefix and the five digit

number, beginning with zero when required, was retained.




66

Romania followed the Soviet pattern of using a two character"alpha prefix", but with Latin letters rather than Cyrillic, followed bya number of four digits or less. Single digit serial numbers have been

observed, but due to the random use of the prefixes these cannot beconsidered "low" numbers other than within their prefix block. The

numbering of secondary parts also followed the Soviet pattern andincluded the bolt, floorplate, and buttplate. Renumbering ofsecondary parts by Romania is apparently uncommon with many

rifles simply having mismatched parts with their original numbersleft in place. These parts are often from the Soviet Union, Poland,

and Hungary so the numbers may not follow the Romanian patter

exactly. Electropenciling has not been documented on Romanian parts and restamped numbers are seldom seen. In the few cases

documented the alpha prefixes were not included and the numbersdid not match. The parts could have come from the Soviet Union and

not been restamped in Romania.




70With the second year of production (1954) China began to use a 7

digit serial number.

71

The full number was also stamped in the secondary locations.

Bolt














73 Buttplate




77Finnish serial numbers do not typically have letter prefixes or

suffixes and can be from 2 digits to 6 digits in length, some with azero or zeros for the first digits.

78

Receivers used by Finland were apparently numbered in somecases. Because of the use of different sizes and fonts of stamps used

by Finland and importers it is difficult to be certain if a Finnish

receiver number is original or not. As with all Mosin Nagants, if it is

a dot matrix type stamp it is not original.

79

Secondary serial numbers are found in the typical locations ofthe bolt, magazine floorplate, and buttplate. However, the manner of

numbering them is different from the Russian/Soviet rifles and withthe exception of the bolt they are often mismatched. This is not

considered detrimental by most Finnish Mosin Nagant collectors.

Finland did not produce bolt bodies and all of theirs are from












82 This bolt was scrubbed clean and no new number stamped.

83This bolt had several old numbers lined out and the last four digits ofthe new number stamped on the knob.







91

Buttplates are often scrubbed, but occasionally have an old numberlined out. The last two digits of the serial number were sometimes

stamped on the rear of the plate but many of these are now

mismatched.

92

This is an uncommon case where a bolt head is numbered to matchthe rifle.

Pictures courtesy of JMK.





93

Another uncommon case where an M39 nose cap is numbered on the

bayonet lug with the last three digits of the serial number.

Pictures courtesy of Claven2.



94M27 winged connector bars were numbered to match with the last 3

digits.





Finnish M28/30s and M39s have sight graduations on the side of the






97Finnish M28/30s and M39s have sight graduations on the side of therear sight base that are often mistaken for serial numbers by new

Mosin Nagant collectors.

98

Civil Guard rifles also have District numbers which have an "S" prefix. This lead to some confusion when the Army took over all

stocks of small arms during the Continuation War and it is not

unusual to find a Finnish rifle with more than one serial number. Theextra numbers are often struck out and sometimes the Civil Guard

District number is used as the serial number.

This is an M24 with a two digit serial number of 11 which has been

struck out. The Civil Guard district number of S 862 then became the

rifles serial number.

99The bolt on the above rifle still has the 11 on the body, but has the

knob restamped with 862.












Left rear woodline, does not include multiple marks 21 35.0 %

Approximately left rear woodline, high or forward 5 8.3 %



Top, across bore 18 30.0 %

Top, with bore 2 3.3 %

Other, does not include multiple marks 4 6.7 %

Multiple, with one mark at left rear woodline 4 6.7 %

None 6 10.0 %Total 60 100 %

M24, originally Civil Guard rifles Size and location is inconsistent among these.

1. Small mark at left rear woodline 2. Large mark at left rear above woodline

3. Large mark at left rear woodline4. Mark forward on right above woodline

courtesy of "GregCandR"

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/SA032.jpg

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/SA006.JPG

















3. Small mark at left rear woodline

Tikka barrel

4. Mark at top across bore

Tikka barrel

M28/30, originally Civil Guard rifles With the small sample it is difficult to determine what is "typical" although M28/30s often follow patternsestablished with M28s.

1. Mark at left rear woodline1938

2. No mark1938




















7. No mark1943 Tikka











M91/30 The three 1944 Tikkas are essentially identical in placement of the SA mark with the small "T" for Taisteluvälinehallinto, or "OrdnanceDepartment".

1. Mark at left rear woodline

1943 Tikka (2 like this)

2. Mark at top across bore, with "T"

1944 Tikka (4 like this)

Finnish Marked Russian and Soviet Mosin Nagants

All content copyright © 7.62x54r.net Return to Mosin Nagant Virtual Museum Return to the Marks Introduction Return to 7.62x54r.net Home Page

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinRare.htm



























http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/FM1894Chat02.jpg










3. 1894 Chatellerault M91 SA mark, two D marks

4. 1894 Sestroryetsk M91 SA mark


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/FM1894Chatb02.JPG


















http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/FM1897Izh.jpg




8. 1900 Tula M91 SA mark

9. 1905 Izhevsk M91 Two SA marks, D mark


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/FM1900Tula.JPG


http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/FM1900Tula.JPG




http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/FM1919Izh.JPG








17. 1920 Izhevsk M91 Dragoon SA mark, 41 mark, D mark on rear sight base

18. 1923 Izhevsk M91/30 SA mark, 41 mark

19. 1924 Tula M91 Two SA marks, D mark, 41 mark

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/FM1923Izh02.JPG






































22. 1932 Izhevsk M91/30 Two SA marks, PUOLUSTUSLAITOS mark, D mark, 41 mark

23. 1933 Izhevsk M91/30 41 mark





























http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/FM1935Tulab03.JPG

















27. 1937 Izhevsk M91/30 SA mark, D mark

28. 1937 Izhevsk M91/30 SA mark, 41 mark





























19 M91/30 Izhevsk 1922 42 NA yes NA NA Empire Arms

20 M91/30 Izhevsk 1926 42 NA yes NA NA "Hasso"

21 M91/30 Izhevsk 1938 42 NA yes NA NA Aztec Int.



http://www.aztecguns.com/






22 M91/30 Tula 1939 42 NA yes NA 39A "El Capitan"

23 M91/30 Tula 1933 42 46 yes 46 stamped over 42 14B "Mike O"

24 M91/30 Izhevsk 1939 42 48 yes NA NA Empire Arms

25 M91/30 Izhevsk 1938 42 50 yes NA 28A "coktnlokt"26 M1895 Tula 1919 42 53 yes 2 MO stamps 11B "Ol'Duke"

27 M91/30 Tula 1939 43 NA yes NA NA Empire Arms

28 M91/30 Izhevsk 1928 44 53 yes NA 19A "slimedog"

29 M91/30 Izhevsk 1943 44 50 yes NA NA "powderhead"

30 M91/30 Tula 1932 45 NA yes DDR marked NA "ofd291"

31 M91/30 Tula 1935 45 NA yes NA 31B "fingolfen"

32 M91/30 Tula 1936 45 NA yes NA 24B "rocker98"

33 M91/30 Izhevsk 1939 45 NA yes NA NA C. M. Boone

34 M91/30 Tula 1942 45 NA yes CH marked, not drilled 46A "seldridge"

35 M91/30 Tula 1942 45 NA yes NA 27A "Chris G"

36 M91/30 Izhevsk 1930 45 53 yes 2 MO stamps, Tula receiver 26B "rocker98"

37 M91/30 Tula 1930 45 53 yes NA 07B Mosin-Nagant.net

38 M91/30 Izhevsk 1932 46 NA yes DDR marked NA Aztec Int.

39 M91/30 Tula 1940 46 NA yes DDR marked 12B "Jack Lawman"



42 M91/30 Izhevsk 1941 46 50 yes NA 25B "derghost"

43 M91/30 Tula 1938 46 51 yes NA 02A 7.62x54r

44 M91/30 Tula 1942 46 51 yes CH marked, not drilled NA Empire Arms

45 M91/30 Izhevsk 1929 46 52 yes 2 MO stamps 06B Empire Arms

46 M91/30 Izhevsk 1933 47 NA yes DDR marked NA "marktaylor"


48 M91/30 Tula 1935 47 NA yes NA NA "Kirk1978"

49 M91/30 Izhevsk 1939 47 NA yes NA 42B "bvchurch"





http://www.mosinnagant.net/

























50 M38 Izhevsk 1941 47 NA yes NA 15B "Mike O"


52 M44 Izhevsk 1944 47 NA yes NA NA "Mike Bluemel"

53 M44 Izhevsk 1944 47 NA yes NA 43A "skohler1"54 M44 Izhevsk 1944 47 NA yes NA NA "Denny"

55 M44 Izhevsk 1944 47 NA yes original "44" restamped 20B 7.62x54r

56 M44 Izhevsk 1945 47 NA yes NA NA Aztec Int.

57 M38 Izhevsk 1942 47 50 yes "triple date" carbine NA "Mogollon"

58 M91/30 Izhevsk 1944 47 50 yesOriginal date (1933) and

arsenal marks scrubbed19B 7.62x54r


60 M91/30 Izhevsk 1928 47 52 yes DDR marked 01A 7.62x54r

61 M91/30 Tula 1930 47 52 yes NA NA Charlie B.

62 M91/30 Tula 1923 47 53 yes NA NA Empire Arms

63 M91/30 Izhevsk 1932 48 NA yes NA NA "powderhead"

64 M91/30 Tula 1932 48 NA yes 1931 receiver NA "Enigma"

65 M91/30 Izhevsk 1933 48 NA yes 1943 receiver, barrel redated 29B "lvmb"

66 M91/30 Tula 1933 48 NA yes NA 41A "tojones"

67 M91/30 Tula 1935 48 NA yes ex-sniper NA Don R.68 M91/30 Tula 1935 48 NA yes ex-sniper NA "Marcus"

69 M91/30 Tula 1935 48 NA yes ex-sniper 37B "JMKDEVCO"

70 M91/30 Tula 1936 48 NA yes ex-sniper, second date struck 33B 7.62x54r

71 M91/30 Tula 1938 48 NA yes ex-sniper NA "Jim combo"

72 M91/30 Tula 1939 48 NA yes NA 53A "learjet60"

73 M91/30 Izhevsk 1940 48 NA yes NA NA "M2Carbine"















129 M91/30 Izhevsk 1943 51 NA yes ex-sniper 14A "Mike O"

130 M91/30 Tula 1936 51 NA yes ex-sniper 01B 7.62x54r

131 M91/30 Tula 1938 51 NA yes ex-sniper 30B C L Cogar

132 M91/30 I h k 1943 51 NA i 12A " d d"



132 M91/30 Izhevsk 1943 51 NA yes ex-sniper 12A "mauserdad"


134 M91/30 Izhevsk 1944 51 NA yes ex-sniper NA "Peepsight"

135 M91/30 Izhevsk 1903 52 NA yes NA NA Tim Kampa136 M91/30 Izhevsk 1926 52 NA yes NA 07A "Poot"

137 M91/30 Izhevsk 1927 52 NA no NA NA Andy

138 M91/30 Izhevsk 1930 52 NA yes NA 10B "Mosin Addict"

139 M91/30 Izhevsk 1933 52 NA yes NA 26A Nick Carinci

140 M91/30 Izhevsk 1943 52 NA yes NA 18A "Nylo"

141 M38 Izhevsk 1941 52 NA yes NA 28B "woettinger"

142 M38 Izhevsk 1944 52 NA yes NA 29A "woettinger"

143 M38 Izhevsk 1942 52 NA yes NA 03B 7.62x54r

144 M38 Izhevsk 1943 52 NA yes NA NA Gail Carboy

145 M44 Izhevsk 1944 52 NA yes NA 46B "marktaylor"


147 M44 Izhevsk 1944 52 NA yes NA NA "ofd291"


149 M44 Izhevsk 1945 52 NA yes NA 05A 7.62x54r

150 M44 Izhevsk 1945 52 NA yes NA 13B "Hornet"

151 M44 Izhevsk 1945 52 NA yes NA NA Don R.

152 M44 Izhevsk 1944 53 NA yes NA 04B 7.62x54r

153 M44 Izhevsk 1944 53 NA yes NA 13A "Hornet"


155 M44 Izhevsk 1945 53 NA yes NA 15A "Mike O"

156 M1895 Tula 1936 53 NA yes NA 16A "Texxut"















1



1928 Izhevsk M91/30 (ex-dragoon)

/47/52 MO

DDR "triangle 1" marked 1936 Tula M91/30/51 MO

ex PE hex sniper

2



1938 Tula M91/30/46/51 MO

1941 Izhevsk M91/30

/42 MO



5



1945 Izhevsk M44

/52 MO

1917 Tula M1895 revolver

/42 MO

original markings scrubbed



7



1926 Izhevsk M91/30

/52 MO

Courtesy of "Poot"

1930 Tula M91/30

/45/53 MO

Courtesy of "Tuco" at Mosin-Nagant.net







15



1945 Izhevsk M44

/53 MO

Courtesy of "Mike O"

1941 Izhevsk M38/47 MO

Courtesy of "Mike O"

16




/53 MO

Courtesy of "Texxut"


/42 MO

Courtesy of "GoShoot"



20



1944 Izhevsk M44

/50 MO

Courtesy of "Grimjack"

1944 Izhevsk M44

/47 MO

original "44" restamped

21



1932 Tula M1895

MO/51

Courtesy of "lvmb"

1943 Izhevsk M91/30

/50 MO

Courtesy of "lvmb"



23



1929 Tula M91/30

/53 MO

courtesy of "Chris G"

1931 Tula M91/30

/48/50 MO


24



1942 Tula M91/30/49 MO

ex-PEM sniper


1936 Tula M91/30

/45 MO

courtesy of "rocker98"



27



1942 Tula M91/30

/45 MO


1944 Izhevsk M38

/50 MO




30



1943 Izhevsk M91/30

/50 MO

courtesy of "Jimbo USA" 1938 Tula M91/30

/51 MO

ex-sniper

courtesy of CL Cogar



32



1931 Tula M91/30

MO

No 2nd date and DDR marked

courtesy of "Noah Zark"

1932 Tula M91/30

/50 MO

courtesy of "archie 360"



34



1943 Izhevsk TT33

/4? MO

courtesy of "powderhead"

1912 Tula M1895

/42 M.O.

courtesy of Vic Benson



36



1902 Tula M1895 revolver/42 MO

original markings scrubbed

1944 Izhevsk M44

/50 MO

courtesy of "Gunhorde"

37



1931 Izhevsk M91/30

/49 MO


1935 Tula M91/30

/48 MO ex-sniper

courtesy of "JMKDEVCO"



39



1939 Tula M91/30

/42 MO

courtesy of "El Capitan"

1933 Tula M91/30

/49 MO

courtesy of Frank R.

40



1934 Izhevsk M91/30

/53 MO MO

PM 86 and Triangle 1 marked

courtesy of "Nefarius"

1926 Tula M91/30

MO /53

courtesy of "derghost"



42



1931 Izhevsk M91/30

/36

courtesy of "Scott Sanders"

1939 Izhevsk M91/30

/47 MO

courtesy of "bvchurch"

43



1944 Izhevsk M44

/47 MO

courtesy of "skohler1"

1939 Erma k98

/42 MO

courtesy of "BARQS19"



45



1936 S/42 k98

/42 MO

courtesy of "alb87"

1941 Izhevsk M91/30

/42 MO

courtesy of "drcello"

46



1942 Tula M91/30

/45 MO

courtesy of "seldridge"

1944 Izhevsk M44

/52 MO

courtesy of "marktaylor"



48



1925 Tula M91/30

/53

courtesy of "Preachere"

1934 Tula M91/30

/51 MO

ex-sniper, GECO pattern

courtesy of "jaz5833"

49



1939 Tula M91/30

/51 MO

ex-sniper

courtesy of "Sweet Old Bob"

1928 Izhevsk M91/30

/49/52 MO

laminated stock

courtesy of "Gun_Nut_73"

50



1944 Izhevsk M91/30

/50 MO

courtesy of "tojones"

1928 Tula M91/30

MO /53

courtesy of "blasterboy82"

51



1941 Izhevsk M91/30

/42 MOcourtesy of "blasterboy82"

1933 Izhevsk M91/30

MO

courtesy of "icerider"

52



1929 Tula M91/30

MO /53

courtesy of Eugene O.

1926 Tula M91/30

MO/53

courtesy of "learjet60"

53



1939 Tula M91/30

/48 MO

courtesy of "learjet60"

Mosin Nagant with Painted Marks


Marks Introduction

Mosin Nagant Virtual Museum

The most commonly encountered Mosin Nagant rifles with painted stock marks are the Romanian Instructie and Exercitiu Rifles which have red

bands (in most cases) and black butts respectively. Occasionally "Instructie" or a variation of it is also painted on the stock. Other painted marks areencountered less frequently and have a variety of origins and meanings, which are often uncertain. This page will collect these types of marks in an

attempt to add to the general knowledge base about them and possibly establish patterns. To submit a picture to be included here please see the7.62x54r.net Photograph Submittal Guidelines page.

1943 Izhevsk M38 This stock also has a Bulgarian pinecone mark and the rifle has a Hungarian bolt. The "15" is probably a rack number and if not

Bulgarian, then almost certainly from somewhere in the Balkans.





http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinRareInstEx.htm



http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinRareInstEx.htm





http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinSubm.htm

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/stencil001.JPG

http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinSubm.htm





1948 Izhevsk M44 This Arabic "91" has been identified as Syrian by Kevin Carney of North China Arms.




http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/stencil004.jpg



1904 Izhevsk ex-Dragoon (M91/30) This rifle has an "F" suffix to the serial number which is possibly Romanian but certainly Balkan. However, itstill has the Imperial Eagles on the barrel and receiver which is not typical of Mosin Nagants from that area of Europe. It does have the typical

"slashed box" refurbishment mark. The meaning of the "H", or "I", is unknown. Picture courtesy of "markus".





1926 Tula M91/30 Unknown marks. Picture courtesy of "2DOGS".




1955 Chinese T53 Unknown Chinese character. Picture courtesy of "2DOGS".





1952 Hungarian M44 Syrian marks. Picture courtesy of "M240G".





1927 Tula M91/30 Albanian mark. Picture courtesy of "M240G".

1942 Izhevsk M91/30 Albanian marks, note the red band. Picture courtesy of "M240G".



1942 Izhevsk M91/30 Unknown marks, note the red band at the buttplate. Picture courtesy of "M240G".

1954 Romanian M44 with Hungarian stock Unknown marks. Pictures courtesy of "M240G".



1942 Izhevsk M38 Arabic "90". Picture courtesy of "Ron W".



1943 Izhevsk M38 with Hungarian stock Arabic "209" over red circle. Picture courtesy of "Ron W".




1915 Tula M91 with Serbian marking "250" Picture courtesy of "Ron W".






1922 Tula M91 "50A" Picture courtesy of "Ron W".






1943 Tula M91/30 Bluish paint on magazine. Picture courtesy of "Ron W".








1943 Tula M91/30 Green square on top of buttstock. Picture courtesy of "Ron W".



1939 Tula M91/30 Red stripe around buttstock and blue "Z" on one side. Picture courtesy of "Ron W".




1943 Izhevsk M38 Arabic "44" from Egypt. Picture courtesy of "The Hebrew Hammer".




Mosin Nagant Import Marks


Mosin Nagant Virtual Museum Mosin Nagant Theories, Opinions, and Observations

There is often confusion among collectors about the meaning and purpose of import marks. ATF rules and importer practices have changed over theyears leading to a wide variety of marks with different information and in different locations on the firearm. On occasion import marks are mistaken

for original marks, especially when they are simply a number or letters rather than the importers name or location.

Most collectors prefer firearms that are not import marked, and some will only purchase non-import marked examples. Currently import marks are a

fact of life though. Some marks are more discreet than others and these are usually preferred. When purchasing a firearm sight unseen over theinternet an unsightly mark can be a disappointment. Referring to the pictures on this page should give a collector a good idea of what type of marks

to expect on a new Mosin Nagant whether it is a current import or an older one.

Many of the marks used on Mosin Nagants by various importers over the years are included with the meanings of abbreviations and other relevant

information. The numbers in the first column are for reference when discussing the marks with other collectors. Please refer to them in anycorrespondence regarding the pictures. The second column contains the exact lettering and punctuation of the mark on the firearm. Notes are in the

third column and the pictures in the fourth column are thumbnails which link to larger pictures. The marks are highlighted for clarity only and are not

normally as "stark" as they appear. Many collectors subdue the import marks with various cold blue products rather than highlight them. This page isunder construction with M91/59, M91/38, Eastern European, and Chinese Mosin Nagant import marks to be added as time allows.

# Mark Notes Picture

Model 91

1

The abbreviations stand for:





http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinTheOp.htm









http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Im002.JPG






C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT.M91 7.62R RUSS

"Century Arms International St. Albans, VT"

This mark is found on Tula, Izhevsk, and SestroryetskM91s

2

C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT.

M91 RUSSIAN 7.62 X 54R A variation on the above mark

3

M91 US 7.62 X 54R

C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT.

This mark is found on New England Westinghouseand Remington M91s

4

M91 U.S.A. 7.62 X 54R

C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT. A variation on the above mark

5

C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT.

M91 7.62R FINLAND

This mark is found on VKT, Tikka, and B M91s, andM24s

6

M91 FINLAND 7 62 X 54R





























M91 FINLAND 7.62 X 54R


7

CAI ST. A. VT M91 7.62R SWITZ

This mark is found on M24s

When these were imported it was mistakenly believedthat they were made in Switzerland.

8

597051 Besides the marks shown above, the serial number

may be stamped on the receiver by Century also. This

is not always the case and some rifles with barrelmarks will not have the number on the receiver. In

most cases if there is a serial number on the receiver,

rather than the barrel, it was placed there by theimporter. Civil Guard rifles will sometimes have the

"S number" on the receiver which was often used bythe Finnish Army, and the importer, as the serial

number.

9

242100

10 SAMCO MIA FL

M1891 7.62X54R FINLAND

This mark was used bySamco of Miami, Florida

11

1381



































Samco imports may or may not have the serial

number added to the receiver in one of two types ofstamps.

12

46060

13

VALTION KIVAARITEHDAS

Samco also placed this mark on some of the rifles

they imported. It is the complete Finnish name for"VKT" which means "State Firearms Factory".

Model 27

14

CAI ST. ALB. VT

M27 7.62R FINLAND



This mark is found on Tikka and VKT M27s.

M27s are not usually numbered on the receiver.


















Model 28 15

MARATHON PROD. INC.

WETH, CT. FINLAND

Marathon Products is no longer in business.

Marathon imports are not numbered on the receiver.

16

CAI ST ALB. VT M27 7.62R

FINLAND

This M28 is mismarked as an M27 by CAI

CAI M27 imports are seldom numbered on thereceiver.

Model 28/30

17

MARATHON PROD. INC.

WETH, CT.

A variation on the Marathon mark.

M28/30s are not usually numbered on the receiver.
















18

MARATHON PROD. INC.

WETH, CT.

The Marathon mark is sometimes found on the rightrear of the receiver.

Model 39

19

CAI ST. A. VT.

M39 FINLAND 7.62 X 54R

The abbreviations stand for:"Century Arms International St. Albans, VT"

This mark is found on all variations of M39s.

20

M39 FINLAND 7.62 X 54RC.A.I. GEORGIA VT.

This mark was used after Century moved from St.Albans to Georgia, VT.

M39s are typically numbered on the receiver.

21

Inter Ordnance Monroe NC

Finland 7.62x54R M39

I/O M39 imports are marked on the barrel and22

























numbered on the receiver with a "dot matrix" type

mark.

70505

Model 91/30

23

C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT.

M91/30 RUSSIA 7.62 X 54R The abbreviations stand for:"Century Arms International St. Albans, VT"

24

M91/30 7.62 X 54R RUSSIA













25

M91/30 RUSSIAN 7.62 X 54R


26

M91/30 RUSSIA 7.62 X 54R

C.A.I. GEORGIA VT.

This mark was used after Century moved from St.Albans to Georgia, VT.

27


C.A.I. GEORGIA VT. A variation on the above mark
















28

N84199 Most Century imported M91/30s are numbered on the

receiver.

29

VV1220

Later M91/30s with Cyrillic letter prefixes in the

serial number have the serial number marked on the

receiver with the English versions of the letters.

30


C.A.I. GEORGIA VT. 9130025496

Century now places the entire import mark on thereceiver with a new serial number. The new number

typically begins with the model designation.

31

M91/38 RUSSIA 7.62 X 54R

C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT. An M91/30 mismarked as an M91/38























32

M91/30 FINLAND 7.62 X 54R

C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT. The Century mark for Finnish M91/30s.

33

PW REDMO WA PW Arms of Redmond, Washington

uses a small mark on the barrel.

34

TG KNOX TN 91/30 762X54 RUSSIA

Tennessee Guns of Knoxville, TN uses a small "dot

matrix" mark on the bottom of the barrel with a new

serial number on the receiver.

35

M93550

36 In some cases Tennesee Guns places the serial

















http://7.62x54r.net/MosinID/Im056.jpg










AH5130

p

number on the flat of the bolt opening.

courtesy of "ThreeJs"

37

COLE DIST S'VILLE KY

Cole Distributing of Scottsville, Kentucky

uses a small mark on the barrel.

38

9130 7.62 RUSIA

39

M91/30 RUSSIA 7.62 X 54R

G.W.S. SMETHPORT PA

GWS brought in some of the first rearsenaledM91/30s and sold them through Allegheny

Arsenal. They are no longer importing Mosin Nagants.

40

S/N 9130-9641 Aztec International used a small import mark on the























Russia M91/30 7.62x54R Aztec Ocala

FL

receiver with a new serial number that begins with the

model designation.

Model 38

41

M38 RUSSIAN 7.62 X 54R

C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT.



42

M91/38 RUSSIA 7.62X54R

C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT. An M38 mismarked as an M91/38.

43

DN 4569

M38s have Cyrillic letter prefixes in the serial numberand the serial number is marked on the receiver with

the English versions of the letters by Century.

44

























M1938 RUSSIAN 7.62 X 54RC.A.I. GEORGIA VT. M3807907

Century now places the entire import mark on thereceiver with a new serial number. The new number

typically begins with the model designation.

45

TG KNOX TN M38 7.62X54 RUSSIA

Tennessee Guns of Knoxville, TN uses a small "dot

matrix" mark on the bottom of the barrel with a new

serial number on the receiver.

46

S/N 38-2913

Russia M38 7.62x54R Aztec Ocala FL

Aztec International used a small import mark on thereceiver with a new serial number that begins with the

model designation.

Model 44

47

M44 RUSSIA 7.62 X 54R

C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT.



48

C.A.I. GEORGIA VT


This mark was used after Century moved from St.

Albans to Georgia, VT.



























49

OR 5983

Some Century imported M44s have the English

version of the Cyrillic serial number prefixes stampedabove the original marks on the barrel. The entire

serial number is also stamped on the receiver.

50 CN1931

C.A.I. GEORGIA VT

M44 RUSSIAN 762X54R

The translation of the original serial number and theimport mark placed entirely on the receiver.

courtesy of Michael Coogan

51

TX14 7.62x54R

M1944 RUSSIAN C.A.I. GEORGIA VT

The original serial number and the import mark

placed entirely on the receiver using a "dot matrix"type stamp.

courtesy of "combat32"

52


C.A.I. GEORGIA VT. M44020461

A new serial number and the import mark on thereceiver. The new number typically begins with the

model designation.

53



























COLE DIST

SVILLE KY

MADE IN RUSS

M44

7.6254R

Cole Distributing of Scottsville, Kentucky

marks M44s on the bottom of the bayonet lug.

54

5397 The serial number is sometimes placed inside the

receiver by Cole Distributing.

55

KM994

INTER ORDNANCE, MONROE, NC

M-44, RUSSIA, 7.62 X 54

Inter Ordnance now places the entire import mark onthe receiver along with the original serial number. The

serial number uses the English version of any Cyrillic

prefixes.

56

S/N 44-3551

Russia M44 7.62x54R Aztec Ocala FL

Aztec International used a small import mark on thereceiver with a new serial number that begins with the

model designation.

57

PW A f R d d W hi t l th ti



















PW ARMS REDMOND WARUSSIAN m44 7.62x54r

SER. 002885

PW Arms of Redmond, Washington places the entire

import mark on the receiver with a new serial number.

courtesy of "alf1960"



mosin nagant rifle guide to proofs and markings

Documents