how does one distinguish between the grade A and B 81 they have? is the gun stamped? i see the difference in the higher grades
D,E,F
thanks
Grades of 81
Grades of 81
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You don't pay too much, you pay too soon
You don't pay too much, you pay too soon
Re: Grades of 81
The standard grade 81's or "A" grade, will have plain American walnut. Checkering does not necessarily denote a higher grade. However, most checkering you see is not factory and VERY few "A" grades have factory checkering.
The next grade up of 81 was called the "C" grade from 1936-1939, it was later renamed the "B" grade from 1940-1950. These two grades will have a prettier quality wood and factory checkering. The earlier "C" grade rifles (from what I've witnessed) actually have "cheeks" where the wrist meets the receiver much like pre WWI Model 8's. These earlier rifles have English walnut with checkering. The later "B" grade rifles have stocks of select American walnut with checkering. They do not have the "cheeks" and their receivers should be marked "MODEL 81 - B". The "- B" marking is not always perfectly centered as it was clearly hand stamped after the receiver was mfg. Most of these B and C grades I've witnesed have factory installed sling swivel eyelets.
"B" and "C" grade rifles should be so marked on the inside of the forearm as well as the stock.
Help me out guys, did I forget something?
The next grade up of 81 was called the "C" grade from 1936-1939, it was later renamed the "B" grade from 1940-1950. These two grades will have a prettier quality wood and factory checkering. The earlier "C" grade rifles (from what I've witnessed) actually have "cheeks" where the wrist meets the receiver much like pre WWI Model 8's. These earlier rifles have English walnut with checkering. The later "B" grade rifles have stocks of select American walnut with checkering. They do not have the "cheeks" and their receivers should be marked "MODEL 81 - B". The "- B" marking is not always perfectly centered as it was clearly hand stamped after the receiver was mfg. Most of these B and C grades I've witnesed have factory installed sling swivel eyelets.
"B" and "C" grade rifles should be so marked on the inside of the forearm as well as the stock.
Help me out guys, did I forget something?
Cam Woodall
Site Co-Administrator
Site Co-Administrator