Age of a gun

Question
Came across a gun last night that belonged to my grandfather. what I found on this single barrel 12 guage pump was the following: Browning Rated 12 Gauge Proof Tested and 5 full. Near the chamber i guess on the one side was Western Field Montgomery Ward & Co. Serial just inside is 6244 then O under it. Near the back end was S6244. Can you tell me what the age might be and or any other information? Value? Or any history? Greatly appreciate your help Thanks

Answer
Hi Keith.

You need to first identify the specific model number of your gun. Check out the blue book section for store brand guns:

https://store.bluebookinc.com/Info/PDF/Firearm/Storebrand.pdf

It looks like most of those guns were made by Mossberg, Savage, or Stevens so it was probably one of those.

For current value you first need to confirm the model number then check out the following section of the blue book:

https://store.bluebookinc.com/InstantAccess/Category.aspx?product=5&id=1068

As you will see, the value is typically low as these were very basic, common guns with no frills and they were sold in great numbers. If you do confirm the specific manufacturer and their original model number then check under those sections of the blue book for a bit more detail.

Unfortunately there are no serial number records available for these guns so it would be nearly impossible to date yours accurately. If you find the true manufacturer then check here:

https://store.bluebookinc.com/Info/PDF/Firearm/Serialize.pdf

Good luck!

Bob