Locating Serial Numbers on Diamond Arms Shotguns: What You Need to Know

Diamond Arms, a trade name used by Shapleigh Hardware for guns made by Iver Johnson of Fitchburg, MA, operated from around 1920 to 1950. While these firearms are notable for their craftsmanship and reliability, one common question continues to arise: where are the serial numbers located on a Diamond Arms shotgun?

The Importance of Serial Numbers

Serial numbers serve as unique identifiers for firearms, allowing for accurate record-keeping and tracing. However, according to US Federal law, serial numbers on rifles and shotguns were not required until 1968. Prior to this date, many inexpensive firearms, especially those made by smaller manufacturers or in smaller quantities, did not have serial numbers. This makes tracking and registration of older firearms a bit more challenging. Nevertheless, it's important to know how to identify and locate these serial numbers if you possess a Diamond Arms shotgun.

How to Locate Serial Numbers on a Diamond Arms Shotgun

Finding the serial number on a Diamond Arms shotgun can be a straightforward process if you know where to look. Here are the steps to follow:

Underneath the bedding: A common location for the serial number is underneath the bedding. Carefully inspect this area as the serial number may be etched or stamped here. On the receiver: Another likely place to find the serial number is on the receiver of the shotgun. This is usually on the bottom or the side, where it is less likely to be damaged during normal use. Inside the receiver: Some Diamond Arms shotguns may have the serial number on the inside of the receiver. This is a less common location, but it's worth checking to ensure accuracy. On the stock: Sometimes, the serial number can be found on the stock itself, either stamped or etched. This is particularly true for shotguns dating from the early to mid-1950s.

Understanding the Absence of Serial Numbers

It's important to understand that the absence of a serial number does not automatically mean a nonexistent number. From the mid-1920s to the mid-1950s, many Diamond Arms shotguns were made without serial numbers, especially if they were produced for the commercial or sporting market. Companies like Iver Johnson (the manufacturer behind Diamond Arms) focused on making affordable, reliable firearms for hunters and sportsmen, and serial numbers were not a requirement at that time.

Historical Context and Legal Considerations

From a historical perspective, it's interesting to note that according to U.S. Federal law, it wasn't until 1968 that firearm manufacturers were mandated to include serial numbers on all rifles and shotguns. This requirement was implemented in response to concerns about illegal weapons and to aid in tracing the origins of firearms used in crimes. While this was a significant development in the firearm industry, it didn't apply to firearms manufactured before this date.

Therefore, if you have a Diamond Arms shotgun that predates 1968, you may need to do additional research to find any serial numbers it might have. This can sometimes require consulting historical firearm databases, contacting firearm experts, or even visiting museums with collections of early firearms.

Conclusion

Locating the serial number on a Diamond Arms shotgun can be a crucial task for firearms enthusiasts looking to ensure the legality and authenticity of their firearms. By understanding where to find these serial numbers and the historical context behind their presence or absence, you can better maintain and appreciate your firearm collection.

Remember, if a firearm lacks a serial number, there are still legal avenues to prove ownership and compliance with firearm regulations. It's essential to know the specific details of your firearm’s history and any relevant documentation.