I have a friend with a 1712 with ‘DE’ on the end of the serial number. Does anyone know what this suffix means?
Thanks

http://jga.anschuetz-sport.com/index.ph ... %E2&FAQID=

I don't think the date code will apply here because 1.) the date code is stamped on the barrel (not with the serial number) and 2.) the "DE" would be a date code for 1934 and they didn't start using date codes until 1968.

It's possible "DE" could be a country code for Germany (Deutschland).

According to the chart on the right side of this page It could also mean it's a single-shot rifle with a single-stage trigger:
http://jga.anschuetz-sport.com/index.ph ... how=detail

Just tossing out ideas here since we don't have anything else to go on other than "it's a 1712".

My old 1712 with the wing safety does not have the DE but my new 1712 with a different safety does have the DE. I am wondering if it distinguishes the new style action and bolt.