Many thanks to Geno for providing the Sauer catalogs. Also thanks to Jeff for his hard work putting together a list of serial numbers/dates. Anyone who has attempted this, knows it is a labor of love without much reward. Also, anyone who has ever researched serial numbers from "documented" US companies, knows there are numberous exceptions to every rule. With German guns this is epecially true; "Never say Never with a German gun!".
I usually find Jeff's work to be correct within a year or two. Given that early Sauer actions were stamped when they were made, not finished or proofed, I think that's pretty darn good. Now that the original Sauer record books have been found in Suhl, perhaps others will publish their own lists. No matter what comes out with more research, proofhouse-dated guns are the best indicator of year and month; keeping in mind there is a time lag in proofing too. For most uses, getting it to witin or year or two is usually good enough. I for one am grateful for that.
Best to all,
C.
Last edited by C. Kofoed; 01/20/09 04:14 PM.
