model 14 safety

[rsmnewton]

I was hoping someone could help me identify a strange (at least to me) option that I saw on a model 14 recently (serial no 69,8xx). First, the receiver had no markings at all except for the shell on the left side that said .32 Rem. It is not drilled and tapped for a rear peep sight. But the strangest thing and the one I have a question about is the safety. The normal safety down by the trigger is just a plug. The real safety is actually located on the boltface itself just forward of the bolt release button. It looks like a series of horizontal grooves about one inch long that can be slid vertically to engage the safety. If you slide the grooves down, the word "safe" appears at the top of the grooves and the safety is engaged. If you slide the grooves up, the "safe" word disappears and the rifle is ready to fire. The receiver itself even has a recess made into it I assume to allow your finger easier access to the safety. I am thinging of purchasing this rifle, but hesitate since I have not seen this before. Can anyone tell me if this is a factory option.

[shot1too]

What you have seen is known as a thumb-nail-safe. It shows up around 1919 and is gone after 1920. It is factory and was a production change. Some TNS guns were converted to the cross bolt safe after production. Most have the plug where the cross bolt safe is normally fround. The TNS is not extremely rare but does increase the value of the rifle. You will also find later rifles with the groove below the ejection port but with the later safe system. Good gun to have in your collection.

[rsmnewton]

thanks for the info. how little did I know. What about the lack of markings on the receiver? Is that common? Do you know where I could find a model 14 in .25 Rem?
thanks
rsmnewton@bellsouth.net

[shot1too]

The Model 14 was not markrd as such until the early 1920ies. In the mid to late teens the barrels were stamped near the rear sight. If you have a serial number that starts with the prefix "C" the model number will not be on the receiver.

When collecting the model 14 don't forget the 14-1/2 (44-40, 38-40) and the carbines. Total there would be 12 rifles to complete the "A" grade rifles. Then you have the graded rifles to include the "C", "D", "F" models. There was a "E" grade mentioned in the first catalog but none have been verified that I know of.

Model 14 rifles in 25 Rem are hard to find but I have seen them listed on many of the auction sites from time to time. Keep watch on auctionarms and gunbroker. Good luck.