The Remington 870 Wingmaster is a legendary shotgun, prized by hunters, law enforcement, and collectors alike. Understanding its serial number is key to determining its age, history, and even potential value. This guide will walk you through deciphering your Remington 870 Wingmaster's serial number and what information it reveals.
What Your Remington 870 Wingmaster Serial Number Tells You
Unlike some firearms, the Remington 870 Wingmaster serial number doesn't directly translate to a specific manufacturing date. However, it provides crucial clues that, when combined with other information, can help pinpoint the year of manufacture. The serial number itself is a combination of letters and numbers, and its format has evolved over the decades.
Understanding Serial Number Prefixes and Suffixes
Remington used various prefixes and suffixes throughout the Wingmaster's production history. These markings, often found before or after the main numerical sequence, can be crucial in narrowing down the production timeframe. Researching these prefixes and suffixes requires consulting resources like Remington's official records (if accessible) or specialized firearm databases and forums.
Unfortunately, Remington doesn't offer a publicly accessible database that directly correlates serial numbers to manufacturing dates. This means pinpointing the exact year of manufacture often requires detective work.
Additional Clues for Dating Your Remington 870 Wingmaster
While the serial number alone doesn't provide a precise date, combining it with other observable features significantly improves accuracy. These include:
- Proof Marks: These marks, indicating the shotgun's pressure testing, often changed over time and can help narrow the date range.
- Receiver Markings: Look closely at the receiver for markings beyond the serial number. Changes in fonts, markings, and even the material used can be indicative of the manufacturing era.
- Stock and Forend: The wood type, finish, and any markings on the stock and forend can offer clues. Older models might exhibit different wood grain patterns or finish techniques.
- Barrel Markings: The barrel markings, similar to receiver markings, can provide additional clues.
- Original Packaging or Documentation: If you're fortunate enough to have the original box, papers, or manual, those will contain vital information about the firearm's history.
Resources for Researching Remington 870 Wingmaster Serial Numbers
Several resources can aid in your research:
- Online Forums: Dedicated firearms forums often have experienced collectors who can offer assistance in dating shotguns based on serial numbers and other features.
- Gun Value Websites: Websites that assess firearm value often provide general date ranges based on serial number patterns. However, keep in mind that these are often estimates.
- Books and Publications: Several books are dedicated to the history of the Remington 870 Wingmaster and might include information on serial number ranges.
The Importance of Accurate Information
Accurate dating of your Remington 870 Wingmaster can be crucial for several reasons:
- Collectibility: The age and condition directly impact the firearm's value for collectors.
- Restoration: Understanding the age helps in finding the correct parts and materials for restoration.
- Historical Context: Knowing the age allows you to place your shotgun within the broader history of the model.
Conclusion: Patience and Persistence are Key
Dating a Remington 870 Wingmaster based on its serial number is a process that often requires patience, persistence, and careful attention to detail. By combining the information gleaned from the serial number with other features and using available research resources, you can significantly improve your chances of determining its approximate age and adding to its fascinating history. Remember, always prioritize safety when handling firearms.
