Lithgow .303, Is it normal for action date and stock date to differ?

[Supaduke]

I am looking at picking up a very nice Lithgow no.1 mk III*. The action, bolt , nose cap etc are all matching and in excellent condition. The action is marked 1942, the buttstock however, is marked 1943. The seller tells me this was a pretty normal thing. Can you guys possibly confirm or deny that information?. I have bought a few rifles off this guy over the years and he generally seems honest and upfront.I don't think he is trying to screw me over, would just be nice to get an independent opinion.

Thanks very much for your time.

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[Homer]

Yes it is totally normal. Action made and dated 1942, rifle assembled and completed 1943. Even much larger differences between action and butt dates can be observed on rifles assembled late 30's to 1940. The biggest spread I've seen are 1928 dated actions assembled in 1939/40.

[Supaduke]

Excellent, thanks Homer , that's good to know. He's always been honest with me previously.

[Terrylee]

A typical example.

Attachment 88020Attachment 88021Attachment 88022

[Supaduke]

Yes, that's pretty much exactly how mine is marked. Appreciate the responses.

[browningautorifle]

Nice rifle Terrylee...

[CINDERS]

Agreed