I recently picked up an original Lebel M1886 M27 rifle in 7.5x54mm. It was manufactured in 1932 and is in really good shape. I have tried researching this rifle and have received a ton of information in the process while I was preparing to pick it up. When I went to pick up the rifle the seller told me he had another rifle that he had no idea what it was but would sell it to if I was interested. He had no pictures at the time so I told him to bring it and I would look at it. Well, he brings out a 2nd M27 but this one has been heavily modified. Long story short I got it for $200. Everything that would have had a serial number on it was no longer on the rifle. The only place I found the serial number was underneath the tang when I removed the stock. The serial is 1194. From what I have been told by people there were only believed to be about 1500 of these made. Is there a way to date this rifle since the date of manufacture was on barrel and the barrel is no longer with it. Is anyone aware of production numbers being linked to years of manufacture for these? The rifle is now chambered in 7mm Mauser. I have included pictures of both rifles.
