Remington Sporter Bbl. markings

[Thomasm]

I recently bought an 03A3 sporterized. It has an R.A. 12/43 two groove Bbl. that is marked "XA60" at about midway down the tube at 9:00. Is there some signifigince tom this marking ?

[Rick the Librarian]

It is the steel lot code. The Ordnance Department assigned these so as to keep track of who supplied the steel for barrels and other parts.

[Thomasm]

Thanks Rick, I figured you'd pop in with the answer ! This thing is going to look good sitting next to my rodone M98 .270. I just love bringing these old dogs back to pretty.