The Remington 11-87, a popular semi-automatic shotgun, boasts a rich history and a loyal following. Understanding your 11-87's serial number is crucial for several reasons, from verifying its authenticity to tracing its manufacturing date and even assisting with potential repairs or parts sourcing. This guide will break down how to decipher your Remington 11-87 serial number and what information it reveals.
What Your Remington 11-87 Serial Number Can Tell You
Unlike some firearms manufacturers who publicly publish extensive serial number databases, Remington's approach is more discreet. However, the serial number itself provides valuable clues. While you won't find a readily available online tool to pinpoint the exact manufacturing date, certain aspects of the serial number can offer a general timeframe. These aspects include:
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Prefix: The letters or numbers preceding the main numerical sequence in your serial number can often indicate the year or even the specific factory where your shotgun was manufactured. Unfortunately, this prefix system isn't publicly documented by Remington, making definitive interpretation difficult without internal company records.
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Numerical Sequence: The core numerical portion of the serial number itself suggests a chronological order of production. Generally, higher numbers represent later production dates. However, without access to Remington's internal manufacturing records, precise dating remains challenging.
Where to Find Your Remington 11-87 Serial Number
The serial number is typically located on the receiver, the main body of the shotgun. You'll usually find it stamped or engraved on the underside or side of the receiver. Check carefully, as the location may vary slightly depending on the model and year of manufacture. Thoroughly inspect the receiver, taking care not to damage the firearm or yourself.
Why Knowing Your Serial Number Matters
Understanding your 11-87's serial number offers several key benefits:
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Authenticity Verification: In the event of a sale or transfer, the serial number acts as a unique identifier for your firearm. This is essential in proving ownership and preventing fraud.
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Parts Sourcing: Should you ever need to replace parts, providing the serial number to a gunsmith or parts supplier can significantly expedite the process. It allows them to ensure compatibility with your specific model and potentially pinpoint any unique features associated with your shotgun's production run.
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Repair Assistance: If you experience mechanical issues, your serial number helps repair technicians diagnose and resolve problems more effectively.
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Historical Context: While pinpoint accuracy regarding the manufacturing date may be elusive, knowing the serial number provides a better understanding of your firearm's place within the larger production history of the Remington 11-87.
Resources and Further Research
Unfortunately, finding a readily accessible, comprehensive Remington 11-87 serial number decoder is unlikely. The information isn't publicly released by Remington. However, contacting Remington directly or engaging with experienced 11-87 owners and collectors through firearm forums or communities might yield additional insights.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only. Always handle firearms safely and responsibly. Consult with qualified professionals for any concerns regarding your firearm's maintenance, repair, or legal aspects. This guide does not provide a definitive means of dating your Remington 11-87, only a general understanding of how serial numbers might provide some clues.
