Decoding Your Remington 1100 Serial Number: A Guide to Dating Your Shotgun
Determining the year of manufacture for your Remington 1100 shotgun using its serial number requires a bit of detective work, as Remington didn't consistently use a single, easily decipherable dating system throughout the gun's production run. The process involves understanding the different serial number prefixes and ranges used over the decades. Unfortunately, there's no single, universally accessible online database that instantly reveals the date based solely on the serial number.
Why Dating Your Remington 1100 Matters:
Knowing the year of manufacture for your Remington 1100 is crucial for several reasons:
- Assessing Value: Older models, especially those in excellent condition, can be quite valuable to collectors. Knowing the age helps determine its worth.
- Parts Sourcing: Finding replacement parts becomes easier when you know the age of your shotgun, as parts availability may vary based on the production year.
- Historical Context: Understanding the historical context of your firearm can add to your appreciation and enjoyment of it.
How to Date Your Remington 1100:
The most reliable method for dating your Remington 1100 involves a multi-pronged approach:
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Examine the Serial Number Prefix: The first few characters of your serial number often indicate the approximate year of manufacture. Unfortunately, Remington changed their serial number system over the years, so there's no single, consistent key. Researching known serial number prefixes and ranges from various Remington resources (like online forums dedicated to firearms, specialized books on Remington shotguns, and gun collector websites) is essential. This usually requires comparing your serial number to known ranges found in these resources. Be aware that even within these resources, there may be some discrepancies.
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Consult Remington Resources: While Remington no longer directly provides dating services, dedicated forums and websites frequented by firearm enthusiasts and collectors can be invaluable resources. These communities often have extensive databases of serial number ranges and corresponding manufacturing years, built up over time through shared knowledge and research. Careful searching within these communities is highly recommended.
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Consider the Gun's Features: Physical characteristics of your Remington 1100 can provide additional clues. Certain features were introduced or discontinued during specific periods. Paying attention to details like the receiver markings, stock type, and barrel features can help narrow down the possible manufacturing year. This requires comparing your gun's physical characteristics to known historical data on Remington 1100 models.
Important Considerations:
- Accuracy is not Guaranteed: Even with diligent research, pinning down the exact year can sometimes be challenging due to the variations in Remington's serial number system and the passage of time. You'll likely be able to narrow it down to a specific range of years rather than a precise date.
- Professional Appraisal: If you're looking for definitive dating and a professional assessment of your firearm's value, consider consulting a qualified firearms appraiser. Their expertise can provide the most accurate and reliable information.
This process requires patience and careful investigation. Start by recording your serial number accurately and then begin your research using the methods described above. Remember to always prioritize safety when handling firearms.
