I have a collection of Savage model 23s with a few that have been accosted and are shooters. I would very much like to mount scopes on a few of the .22s and on one of the 25-20 and 32-20. Looking around the internet I found some 3/4 inch vintage Weaver scopes that would look great. My question, what is the meaning of the letter designations such as B,C,G,J,and R. Anyone know ? Also I have a good selection of N type Weaver mounts for this project. Any input would be much appreciated. Help me 24 hourcampfire people you are my only hope.
According to my copy of Old Rifle Scopes by Nick Stroebel, the G series were rimfire scopes, introduced in 1947. They were replaced by the B4 and B6 in 1954, which in turn were replaced by the C series rimfire scopes, with larger ocular and objective lenses, in 1966, and these were replaced by the D series (on a 7/8" tube) in 1970.
The J2.5X and J4X were advertised as scopes for high-powered rifles, and were introduced in 1947 to replace the 330 and 440. They were dropped in 1967 and replaced by the A2.8 and A4, both of which were dropped in 1969.
It is worth noting that the 1" tube K series scopes were contemporaneous with these, being introduced in 1947, though updated at various times since.
Stroebel's book has some more detail, including dimensions, weights, FOV, and eye relief for a range of these. It is well worth getting if you can find a copy.
Mr. dan_oz, Thank you for a very informative answer. Your time is appreciated, I will be hunting for a copy of " Old Rifle Scopes". So it looked is like the J series for the 25-20 and 32-20, the rest will be used on the .22 rimfire. I have over time accumulated several K4s, my favorite being a cross and post. That one is going on my 23 D Hornet. Love the old stuff, not for wall hanging. Give them a good cleaning, work up a good load and have some fun. No one really ever called the
I had a 330 with a post. I think they were used as sniper scopes.
Yes, the 330 model was used as a sniper scope. It was adopted for use on the 1903A4 as the M73B1, though a number of the commercial 330C model were pressed into service too.