Before searching, you first need to find the serial number. On almost all U.S. military firearms from the 19th and 20th centuries, the primary serial number is stamped into the metal of the receiver (the main body of the gun that houses the bolt and firing mechanism). For most rifles, this is located on the left rear side of the receiver.
: The most reliable way to verify a manufacture date is to call Springfield Armory Customer Service (800) 680-6866 cs@springfield-armory.com Prefix Clues
During World War II and the Korean War, Springfield Armory produced millions of M1 Garands. You can estimate your rifle's birth year using these major serial number milestones: 1 to 50,000 (Early pre-war production) 1941: 50,001 to 440,000 (Pearl Harbor era) 1942: 440,001 to 1,100,000 (Wartime acceleration) 1943: 1,100,001 to 2,300,000 (Peak WWII production) 1944: 2,300,001 to 3,400,000 1945: 3,400,001 to 3,880,000 (End of WWII) serial number lookup springfield armory
While you need to contact customer service for exact dates, the letter prefixes on modern serial numbers give a general indication of the firearm type: Typically found on modern M1A rifles.
| If you have... | Action | | :--- | :--- | | | Call (800) 680-6866 or email via website. No online tool. | | U.S. Government Springfield Armory | Use museum database ( springfield-armorymuseum.org ), Ferris book, or Garand/M1903 serial tables. | | Suspected stolen firearm | Contact local law enforcement; do not rely on company. | | Just a serial number & no other info | Post prefix (e.g., NM, XD) on a gun forum for identification help. | Before searching, you first need to find the serial number
Determining the manufacture date, model history, and specifications of a Springfield Armory firearm requires a clear understanding of its serial number. Whether you own a vintage military rifle or a modern concealed-carry pistol, the serial number serves as the definitive key to the history of your firearm.
This comprehensive guide covers both historical government-issued weapons and modern commercial firearms, explaining how to look up your Springfield Armory serial number, estimate production dates, and determine historical value. The Two Eras of Springfield Armory: Why Context Matters For most rifles, this is located on the
You can use the Warranty Registration Page to identify your specific model. While it won't give you a manufacture date, it confirms your serial number is in their system.
Based in Geneseo, Illinois, this company purchased the rights to the "Springfield Armory" name after the original federal facility closed. They have produced the M1A rifle (a semi-automatic version of the M14), a wide range of 1911 pistols, the XD series, and many other modern firearms.