Hand Guard Serial Numbers?

[EvelDOU42]

I’d like to ask for opinions from some members with better eyes and more experience. I’d be grateful if anyone would let me know if this is actually very lightly stamped Serial Numbers or just wood grain? Thanks everyone. Much appreciated.

 

[Muncher 1953]

I’m no expert, but I’ve looked at enough of these to know that sometimes the eyes can see something a camera cannot. I can’t see any marks in your photo above. By 1944 directives had been issued to stop numbering many parts, including rear sight components and hand guards. Compliance with directives varied, so it’s possible it was numbered, but seems less likely particularly if they’re not or barely visible.

 

[biggymu]

Sometimes if you shine a light sideways, across the numbers, they photograph better. Try different lighting.

 

[Muncher 1953]

lighting, what biggymu said. indoors outdoors direct indirect try everything. you might be able to bring them out by carefully doing a pencil rubbing, like on gravestones.

 

[EvelDOU42]

I’ve tried all the mentioned methods above to help see them. It must not be numbered. The stock is numbered but I guess It’s possible the hand guard wasn’t or was replaced by an armorer. Thank you to the members that commented.