The lower "arm" of the L-shaped lever on a 1900 is shorter than the later models. I have had a 1900 with a correct side plate but with a replacement later lever. It functioned OK but you had to kind of "wiggle" in the lever to install the side plate. Don't recall if the lever was stock or modified but I believe it was stock.
Another difference is that the 1900 side plate sits flush with the frame on the left side...later models are thicker.
__________________
If it's made after 1918...it's a reproduction
|