Stevens 311A date of manufacture

I just purchased my first Stevens SxS , model 311A, and would love to determine its age. It was made in Chicopee Falls.
20 ga. On the underside of the receiver is a small oval with “17M” stamped in it. Is this gun made in 1960 at Chicopee Falls, but actually part of their 1961 sales? Or something entirely different? Thanks

The "M" in the oval indicates 1961. Can see the year chart in (even though it says rifles) - Rifles with Date Code Stamp (1949-1969)

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Hebron

I just purchased my first Stevens SxS , model 311A, and would love to determine its age. It was made in Chicopee Falls.
20 ga. On the underside of the receiver is a small oval with “17M” stamped in it. Is this gun made in 1960 at Chicopee Falls, but actually part of their 1961 sales? Or something entirely different? Thanks

---

Not knowing the production process for these guns I would say its highly probable the components were made in 1960 (hence the Chicopee Falls stamp), but the firearm wasn't assembled/finished until 1961 after the factory had moved to Westfield.