Stevens Model 9400, when produced?

[warrio08]

I am looking at a Stevens Model 9400, made by Savage Arms, Westfield, Mass USA. It is a 12 gauge, barrel marked 3 inch, breakopen single shot. Can anyone tell me the years this weapon was produced? I can not find a serial number anywhere on the receiver.

thanks in advance. David Dunagin

[ktr]

Savage used a 'date code' on all their firearms for a time, even those serial numbered (prior to 1968, 22 caliber long guns and shotguns were not required to be serial numbered, but some mfg'rs numbered them anyway).

Savage stamped a letter usually in a circle on the receiver. Most likely on the bottom of the action but it can be on the sides sometimes. There may also be a number along with the letter code inside the circle.
Here's a link to the codes. They were used from 1949 to just after the Gun Control Act of '68 went into effect.
http://www.go2gbo.com/forums/index.php?topic=132934.0