If it's "new", any date code would be acceptable, at least to me.
If you want a 2018 built gun, I'd specify from the seller, if such is possible.
If you want a 2018 built gun, I'd specify from the seller, if such is possible.
I think the real question is do you have a preference for standard rifling or polygonal rifling. The change over started with serial number FCA 0001. So, rather than check date codes, you'd be better off checking the serial number. Or just look at the ejection port, or look down the barrel.
They're ALL fine pistols....choose one over the other only if you have a preference or need.
So, you're getting the most current production model.....with polygonal rifling, recontroured ejection port and a few other changes/upgrades.
I've got some older models as well as some later models....M1's and M2's.