i have recently acquired some old guns, does anyone know how i can find out when they were made? would i be best to call the manufacturer? or is there websites for this?

OIne creditable source is "The Blue Book of Gun Values". It lists MOST of the guns that have been produced over the years, with a description of how to judge condition, and values for the various conditions. It also has in the index in the back of the book serialization codes for many of the manufacturers, how to interpret them in regards to date of manufacture. Most larger bookstores should carry this reference, and possibly some of the larger firearms dealers.
I'm sure others on here may give you some other leads....

The NRA is able to tell you most everything you want to know about most any gun. They've been in the mix since 1871; if they don't know it, it's probably not worth knowing. This is a member service they provide. You need to send them markings off of the gun (a description of what markings, stampings, etc. are on the steel and stock). Photos are, of course, helpful as well.

If you're not in the NRA you sure should be, for many, many reasons besides this.

oh cool thanks, well i am a member, and i have found out one of the guns was made between 1950-62. il have to get on to that. thanks