HRA: What's early, what's late?

[finloq]

I have read: "early HRA's" and "late HRA's"
Where was the designated break?
I have an 8/54 HRA serial #5,521,138.
HRA's were produced 1953-1956.
From Scott Duff's book:
1953 - 500 delivered
1954 - 114,459 delivered
1955 - 158,187 delivered
1956 - 155,454 delivered

So, I would assume that 8/54 would be early, but...?

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.

[0440]

Your HRA garand was made in 1954...............go to: oldguns.net
scroll down on left side to: US Military

you will note all US military arms and the makers. simply bring up type gun and maker then insert serial number. Waaaalaaaa the date made. No charge

[finloq]

Thanks, but I have the date; looking at rifles with close serial numbers here: http://www.jouster.com/forums/showth...v-7-XLS-Format
I think that my barrel is original. Dated 8/54.
I am trying to determine what stock to look for. Cartouch 3/8" (early) or 1/2" (late).
Is 1954 considered early (nearer to beginning of HRA production) or late (second sequence of assigned serial numbers)?

[Joe W]

Following information is based on research by Wayne Bradford.
" The 3/8" DAS stamp is the predominate cartouche found in the 4.66 to 5.59 ranges, and is found sporadically in the 5.60 to 5.65 range.
The 1/2" DAS became the predominate cartouche in the 5.60 range, and remained predominate until the end of production."

So you should be looking for a stock with the 3/8" DAS for your 5521138.
As far as "early" and "late", I look at the 1st block, 4.66 to 4.7???, as "early", and all 2nd block, 5.48 thru 5.79 as "late". Others may see it different.

[Sarge]

I've got the earliest I've ever heard of. 4,660 ,483 or the 483rd H & R produced.
Sarge

[Joe W]

I've got the earliest I've ever heard of. 4,660 ,483 or the 483rd H & R produced.
Sarge

While that is early and a great rifle to own, I have heard of lower. There is an article in the fall GCA Journal (Low Serial Number H&R) by Scott Duff. The article and data sheet is in regard to 4660036. The article also mentions 4660066 and 4660329 which along with 4660036, share the same features: WW2 hammer, op-rod, early op-rod catch and an Ordnance emblem stamped on the left side of the stock. 4660036 also has the H (Hart) trigger housing. Scott mentioned one other lower number, 4660010, but only the barrel and receiver were original on that rifle. The rifle which is the subject of the article, 4660036, is in 100% original configuration and in near unissued condition. This rifle also has its 1997 DCM shipping box and papers. It is believed to be the lowest numbered H&R in original configuration.

[EarlB]

This one sold over on CMP tonight...sure wish I could have gotten it. Beautiful gun.

WTS: 4.66mil HRA Collector Grade Garand - CMP Forums

Earl