Model 12 .22 cal question

[Rockyman]

I have a Model 12a .22 calibre rifle that was manufactured in 1911. I queried the serial number with Remington to determine the date. The rear site is an elevated site with a brass insert that can be raised or lowered after unscrewing a small screw on the back of the sight. The fore end is checkered a opposed to ribbed as I have seen in all 12a's during my research. It has a round barrel that measures 23 1/4 " from the receiver to the muzzle. There is stamp on the left side of the barrel that reads CSS3. There is also an "S" stamped on the slide behind the fore end.
All of these things seem different then most 12a's I have researched. I downloaded an owners manual from the internet and it appears as though some of the parts like the fore end and rear sight were more common on the No. 6 "Premier" Grade.
Can you clarify the following:
- Is the 23 1\4 barrel normal for the 12a?
- are the fore end and rear sight common on the 12a or are they upgrades?
- what do the stamps CSS3 and S mean?

[nambujim]

CSS3 means your rifle was returned to the factory for repairs in April 1947.

Best to post a picture of your rifle so we can all see what you are talking about but John Gyde will probably weigh in and answer most of your questions.

Jim Peterson
Charlotte, NC