The Remington 1100 is a legendary shotgun, prized by hunters and shooters alike for its reliability and performance. Understanding your firearm's serial number can be crucial, whether you're verifying its authenticity, tracing its history, or simply satisfying your curiosity. This guide focuses specifically on Remington 1100 serial numbers ending in the letter "V," helping you decipher what that signifies about your shotgun's manufacturing date and potentially, its features.
Understanding Remington 1100 Serial Number Structure
Before diving into the "V" suffix, it's vital to understand the general structure of Remington 1100 serial numbers. These numbers typically consist of a combination of letters and numbers, offering clues about the year and sometimes even the month of manufacture. Remington's manufacturing processes and serial number conventions evolved over time, making precise dating sometimes challenging without access to their internal records (which are not publicly available).
Unfortunately, there's no publicly accessible, definitive Remington 1100 serial number decoder that provides exact dates based solely on the serial number. Many online resources offer partial information or speculated date ranges, but these are often unreliable.
What the "V" Suffix Might Indicate
A serial number ending in "V" on a Remington 1100 suggests the shotgun was likely manufactured towards the later years of production. The letter likely falls within Remington's internal alphanumeric coding system used to track production batches. While we cannot pinpoint the exact year solely based on the "V," it's safe to assume it points to a gun manufactured sometime after the mid-to-late 1970s through the end of production.
Important Note: Remington's production practices varied, and the letter "V" could potentially have different meanings depending on the specific factory and production line. Thus, drawing a precise conclusion without more information from the serial number is impossible.
Other Clues to Determine Your 1100's Age
To get a clearer picture of your Remington 1100's age, consider these additional factors:
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Examine the Gun's Features: Certain features (like stock design, receiver markings, and barrel configurations) can help narrow down the manufacturing period. Comparing your shotgun to images and descriptions of known Remington 1100 models from different eras can offer valuable insights.
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Check for Manufacturer Markings: Look closely at the receiver and barrel for any markings indicating the year of manufacture or the factory where it was produced. These marks often provide more precise information than the serial number alone.
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Consult with Firearms Experts: Experienced gunsmiths or collectors familiar with Remington 1100 shotguns can offer valuable assistance in dating your firearm based on a visual inspection and a complete serial number examination. Joining online forums or clubs dedicated to Remington firearms can also connect you with knowledgeable individuals who can help.
Conclusion: The Importance of Context
While the "V" at the end of your Remington 1100 serial number gives a hint towards a later production date, it's not a definitive answer. To accurately determine the year of manufacture, you need to consider the complete serial number in conjunction with a thorough visual inspection of your firearm and potentially, seeking expert advice. Remember, the age of your 1100 is just one piece of its rich history – enjoy the legacy of this iconic shotgun!
