Hey guys, I've had this Winchester M-1 for a little while and just realized the proof on the right (op-rod cut) side is different than the WP I've been told was correct. The barrel part number D35448 W.R.A. is on top of the barrel, visible when rear handguard is removed. I sure would appreciate some your thoughts. Thanks! 

Is there anybody out there who can ID this proof on my Winchester M-1 Garand barrel? As stated the D35448 W.R.A. is stamped on top under rear handguard. Not WP. Thanks!

From what I see that's the standard "W over P inside oval" that Winchester used and is typical or barrels having that drawing number are marked such for Winchester. I looked at the ones in my JC Harrison book and that's what was stated.

This page shows the marking in the galley photo # 5

https://ammogarand.com/m1-garand-winchester-barrel-wwii-usgi-12-me-1122.html

Maybe i’m just scrutinizing this proof too much, but it appeared to me that the bottom center of the W where it intersect the P looks more “rounded” were the other examples of that proof the W’s lines all look very straight. Plus I realize it’s a partial proof and I know especially when being applied on a rounded surface you very often do not get a clear impression.

Probably just my OCD acting up.

Thanks for your input.

Im no expert but with any stamps there can be anomalies (as well as fakes). Stamps do wear out or if applied by hand wont be consistent over thousands of items. I have had a Carbine or two with Winchester barrels and the PW was real faint or almost nonexistent. For what people pay for Winchester stuff I see the workmanships is often not as good as Springfield as far as finish or stampings etc and the big W doesn't make them shoot better..lol

If I may suggest, go to the CMP forum as there are some pretty sharp guys there and all things Garand spoke of and also can join the M1 Garand Collectors Club for $25 a year I recall and get a magazine also with the membership

I totally agree that markings of this nature can vary quite a bit especially when being applied to a hard surface that isn’t flat. I’ve had this M1 for quite a while & the person I had gotten it from I knew well. The fact that the stamping on top of the barrel looks 100% correct it probably is just an anomaly… Perhaps a worn stamp on its last legs on a particularly tough area to strike. I might check at the grand collectors club just for poops and giggles.

I also do recall reading that Winchester did not do the same quality finishing as Springfield armory during the war.

I appreciate your help and opinion.

Cheers