As far as SNs go, the metal pieces and wood were produced separately and then assembled at the arsenal. The receiver would have a production number located on the top of the metal collar to the left of the bolt and just under the bolt handle. Once the rifle was fully assembled it would be given a SN stamped on all major pieces metal and wood. The letter prefix roughly denotes year of assembly which doesn’t always correspond with the year stamped on the collar. Mine for example is stamped 1942 but assembled in March of ‘43 so it has the D prefix. After assembly when the weapon was proofed those marks were applied at the base of the barrel just in front of the receiver under the top hand guard. The month and year of assembly is also stamped here. The butt stock was also stamped at this time with the SN under the straight grip and on the side with year and with ,as on mine, SMLE HV VII MA meaning it was proofed for the high velocity mk VII ammo and Mangrovite Arsenal
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