Garand barrel date vs receiver date question(s)

[1mark]

So the rule of thumb is the barrel is 3 months or so older than the receiver (barrel 6/40, receiver 9/40). Or would they be closer?

I came across a 1940 barrel and want to look for the close receiver via date. I know trying to find the other 1940's parts will the costly. So I figured I have the barrel, get the receiver and than the op rod and bolt. Don't worry about the rest as it may take some time and money.

[Johnny P]

The two gas port rifles I have that date to 1940 both have barrels dated the same month as the receiver is serial numbered.

[Mike in NC]

I have an original except buttstock 53K Garand. The receiver dates to Aug. 1940 and the barrel is a 7-40 SA barrel. I suspect in early gas port production, when production rates were low, the barrel dates and assembly dates were pretty close to each other.

[1mark]

Ok thanks for the reply's. Now for the hunt.