Postal Meter question

[deldriver]

If you're worried about the barrels being replacements simply look for the NPM proof punch on them. You may have to look under the bayonet lug for the punch marks though.

Information

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[bobg]

Did NPM use the proof punch during their entire period of production or just for a certain time period?

[deldriver]

No, but pretty close to it.

[bobg]

Is it known what time period they did or did not use the punch marks?

[painter777]

Is it known what time period they did or did not use the punch marks?

I've seen Punch marks towards the end of 1st serial block NPM.
Like Deldriver, I believe it was pretty early on..... maybe half way through their 1st serial block (?) that NPM stopped stamping their P on the barrels they received and just applied the Punch mark near the barrel makers P proof.
I believe it was considered a time saver on NPM's behalf.

But with that said here's a recent sale by Sam T Bob of a lined out Underwood to NPM that has a no date Marlin barrel with 2 P proof stamps on the barrel. No punch mark and in your serial range~.
Being STB I can't say if this was the original barrel:




Jim M,
Has some info and pictures of NPM proofs near the bottom of this page:
The U.S. Caliber .30 Carbines - Barrel Manufacturers

Now for a time frame of UEF receivers to NPM for possible barrel dates.......