Quote Originally Posted by ccdjg View Post
Bruce, it certainly seems like you have identified a third unknown variant. However, there may not be a simple serial number relationship for when these were produced. As you say, the earliest number known for this variant is 4227. However, John Atkins owns serial number 5547, and says that it has the normal bead sight and no screw, and he also knows of serial number, 5332, which also has the same characteristics.

Perhaps we should consider serial number 4227 to be an anomaly, perhaps an experimental prototype, and assume that the third version was not fully introduced until after serial number (at least) 5800.

It may not be coincidence that all the known examples of this third version have appeared in the USA.

I wonder if the redundant screw was the result of an abandoned attempt to introduce a safety catch? If a batch of frames had been drilled ready for the safety catch, and then the safety catch idea had been abandoned, the screws could have been a quick means of filling an unsightly hole.
Hi John, l would go along with the theory of the safety catch, as that would make sense. as for the fore sight. my theory is maybe who ever the retailer was exchanged the sights as a better sales feature. but a very interesting thread all the same.