Newbie with another M/12 question

[Clutch]

Hello all and please be gentle as this is my first post. I have lurked here for a while and really appreciate the manner in which people

are treated so thank you in advance. I have recently acquired a M/12 ser 287258, I tried to look up the mfg date but am not sure I

got it right. I am unable to make out the markings on the from the pics (The gun is currently being shipped). Travis, with Rem told me it was

made in 1915, but I am not sure how he got that information as the only ser num listing I found started in 1921. Anyway, if anyone

could help me with the mfg that would be great. Of more importance to me, I would like to have the gun restored to make a primary

"plinker". I am not interested in $$ for the gun, only want a neat little plinker. Can anyone point me in the right direction? Gunsmith?

I am not a strong puzzle guy so I am not sure I can take it apart and put it back together without a schematic or some type of

manual/drawing. I searched the threads but, did not really find anyone that mentioned taking apart the gun and putting it back

together. Any help for a newb with "another" M/12 question would be appreciated and thank you in advance.

[remington600]

I can help you with the date by serial number. It was made early 1914. As for the rehab I can be of no help other then dont do it. Keep it like you have it. It has character and even though you dont know it a story. Almost a hundred years worth. Oh! and your gun is manufactured before they had date codes.

[Clutch]

Thanks 600, I guess what I mean by rehab is make it safe and reliable to fire. Don't really want to change the character of the gun for reasons stated. How will I know if it is safe to fire? By slop in the chamber? what about the barrel? Put in a liner ONLY if it doesn't shoot straight? Will I be able to find parts for it just to make it shoot? Thanks for the reply and kind regards to all!

[John Gyde]

I suggest using only standard velocity LR ammo. Your rifle was made long before hi-velocity ammo was made.

[remington600]

If your worried just have a respectable gunsmith check it out. Your gun doesnt appear abused only aged. Parts are pretty easy to obtain. Even on Ebay.

[Clutch]

thanks fellas! I'll keep you posted... pun intended...