Identify Proof Mark

[linde]

A friend sent me this picture of a Model 10-8 (circa 1983) that is clearly marked by the importer (don't recall which one) and with proof marks on the frame and barrel that I can't identify.

If needed I can have him bring it over and we can take better, close-up pictures.

Thanks, Russ

 

[armorer951]

Here's a French "St. Etienne" mark that looks very similar.......

 

[Absalom]

Indeed.

I do not know the meaning of the letters, but if you compare the coat of arms with the St. Etienne mark on my Manurhin Walther, it appears to be the same. Both the shape, size, and four crenellations on top.

The French are also known to have imported that model for police use.

 

[linde]

I've added close-up pictures of the proof mark and other "symbols" on the Model 10-8 with s/n prefix ABN (circa 1983).

Based on armorer951's and Absalom's identification I'm convinced this is a modern day French Proof Mark from the St. Etienne proof house.
SMALL ARM PROOF | Banc National d'Epreuve des armes de Saint-Etienne

In the course of learning more about Proof and Armorer's Marks I ran across an informative excerpt from "The Book of the Pistol and Revolver" by Hugh B. C. Pollard:
Proof and Armorers' Marks - The Book of the Pistol
along with ordering information on the book itself.

I'm going to speculate that the other two symbols are armorer's marks, although I could be convinced otherwise.

Any further insights are most welcome,

Russ