It really depends on the model and the maker. Some are printed or stamped right on the gun in plain view. Others, you might have to look up online or ask an expert. At the same time, guns like the Colt M1911 .45 pistol or the Browning M1919 Machine gun have the year right in the name! (M1911 was made in 1911, the M1919 was made in 1919). If you need help finding the year of any specific guns, or if you need any other questions involving guns answerd, you can reach me at nat040496@gmail.com.
I WILL block spammers and people who send me worthless nonsence, but if you have a question about anything involving any kind of firearm or anything involving the US Military, I'm your man!
You have to tell us who made it.
It is only an identifying mark. It MAY tell you what year it was made.
The gun was made in 1949.
No
If sn data has been published.
Serial number or features or original receipt as a rule
No way to tell. You can look up that patent, and it will tell you what year that patent was granted- but there is no way of telling when it was made, other than AFTER that patent was granted.
For SOME guns, yes. There are not records for all guns.
If you call S&W they will tell you when it left the factory.
Check old gun catalogs
You can tell by the model number and a few other details like the serial number of the air gun. But you will also need a Air gun catalogue, or contact the manufacture, or place the information here and let someone answer you.
Take your gun into a licensed Arms dealer. They will run the serial number on the gun (If their isn't one, this is illegal and you will be forced to forfit your gun to them) and they should run it and be able to tell you.