If a Victory Model is stamped with the Flaming Bomb denoting US Army Ordnance, in the absence of other markings does that mean it was Army issue or could it have gone to the Navy?
Was there any differentiation in markings between the Victories that were issued to the Marines as opposed to those issued to the Navy? Aboard ship, I would imagine all weapons were under the Master of Arms, a sailor, but land-based Marines could be another matter.
If a Victory Model is stamped with the Flaming Bomb denoting US Army Ordnance, in the absence of other markings does that mean it was Army issue or could it have gone to the Navy?
Was there any differentiation in markings between the Victories that were issued to the Marines as opposed to those issued to the Navy? Aboard ship, I would imagine all weapons were under the Master of Arms, a sailor, but land-based Marines could be another matter.
A flaming bomb doesn't automatically tell you whether a gun went to the Army, Navy, or? Many Victories have after shipment markings applied by various units, military and civilian ( as well as marks added by fakers). So decyphering a Victory's marks is a reverse engineering process - observe the marks - observe how they were applied ( inregards to the finish & method used to apply) - compare with known original and after market markings and factory authenticated markings - make an educated guess as to the marks purposes - post photos and discuss your decision with the forum experts on Victory Models. Many Victories have multiple marks that reveal a fascinating series of uses and ownerships over their life. Ed.
You may have saved me from making a misguided purchase. Not only did you answer my question but also you supplied a lot of additional useful information as well.
Bill, You're most welcome - That's what this Forum is all about - spreading the word and knowledge about our favorite firearm - a Smith & Wesson. Good luck! Ed.
Linear Mode
