The Remington 700. The name itself conjures images of precision, power, and a rich legacy etched into the history of American firearms. This iconic bolt-action rifle has served hunters, target shooters, and law enforcement professionals for decades, earning a reputation for accuracy and reliability that remains unmatched by many. Owning a Remington 700 is more than just possessing a firearm; it’s owning a piece of history. But how much do you truly know about *your* Remington 700? Delving into the details of your rifle, especially its serial number, can unlock a wealth of information.
This comprehensive guide is your key. We’ll walk you through every step, from locating the serial number on your rifle to interpreting the information it holds. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a new owner, understanding your Remington 700’s serial number is essential for a variety of reasons. Discover its manufacturing date, the specific model it is, and most crucially, check for any potential safety recalls that might affect your firearm.
The Significance of the Serial Number
The serial number is more than just a random series of digits; it’s a unique identifier, a fingerprint for your Remington 700. Understanding the information embedded within that string of characters is vital to properly appreciating and caring for your firearm. It helps determine the age of your rifle, allowing you to contextualize its history and appreciate its lineage. It lets you pinpoint the specific model or variant of your Remington 700, crucial for identifying replacement parts, accessories, and understanding its design features.
Furthermore, the serial number is crucial for ensuring the safety of the rifle and of yourself and others around you. It is the key to verifying if your rifle is affected by a recall, a critical step in ensuring proper function and safety. It’s also valuable for collectors, as it adds context to your rifle’s provenance, and may affect its value.
Where to Find the Identifier
The first and most important step in any Remington 700 serial number lookup is, of course, to *find* that serial number on your firearm. The exact location can sometimes vary slightly, depending on the year of manufacture and the specific model. Here’s a detailed guide to help you locate this essential piece of information:
The most common location for the serial number is on the *receiver* of the rifle. The receiver is the central metal component that houses the bolt, firing mechanism, and often the barrel. Typically, the serial number is stamped or engraved on the side of the receiver, usually on the left-hand side (the side opposite the bolt handle) or sometimes on the underside. Look closely, as the stamping may be small and sometimes can be partially obscured by the stock.
Another possible location is the barrel. Although less common, the serial number may appear on the barrel, especially on earlier models or on rifles that have had the barrel replaced. Check near the receiver where the barrel is attached.
It’s important to note that in some cases, the serial number might be difficult to read. This could be due to normal wear and tear, rust, or even the removal of the serial number through refinishing or repairs. If you encounter this situation, take your time and carefully clean the area around where the serial number should be. Use a soft brush and a gentle cleaning solvent to remove any debris or oxidation. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could further damage the surface. If the serial number is still illegible, you may need to seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith who may be able to identify the number or the rifle in other ways.
Understanding the Construction of Identifiers
Before you can start any Remington 700 serial number search, you need to have a basic understanding of how these identifiers are structured. While the format has evolved over time, there are general patterns to be aware of.
Early Remington 700 rifles, manufactured before the 1970s, often had a simpler serial number format. These may consist of a numeric sequence without prefixes or suffixes. However, identifying a specific date from these numbers can sometimes be more challenging.
During the 1970s and continuing into the early 1990s, Remington implemented a more standardized system. This format often includes a letter prefix, representing the month of manufacture, followed by a series of numbers. The letter code varies, with the most common letters found being those of the alphabet. It is then followed by a series of numbers, representing the year of production. If you have an identifier from this period, knowing how to read that letter code is essential.
The format continued to evolve after that, with later rifles typically featuring a more complex system, again featuring letters in the alphanumeric identifiers.
Because of the variations in the serial number formats, its imperative to understand how the identifier is configured for your rifle to use the information and resources correctly.
Methods for Uncovering the Details
Now that you know how to find your Remington 700’s serial number, and have some idea of what it might look like, it’s time to start your lookup. Thankfully, there are several effective methods available:
Remington itself, in the past, provided online resources or direct contact information. If this is still available, it is usually the best starting point. However, Remington has experienced changes, and as such, such options might not be available. If the Remington website offers a lookup tool, follow the instructions provided. It will typically ask you to enter your serial number, and in return, it should provide you with the date of manufacture, model information, and any relevant recall notices.
Another excellent option is to use the available online resources and databases maintained by various sources. These databases are essentially repositories of information, compiled from a variety of sources. Some notable platforms host these databases, including gun enthusiast forums, dedicated firearms websites, and online marketplaces such as GunBroker.
When using these online resources, always verify the information. Cross-reference any findings with other sources whenever possible. Understand that these databases may not be completely comprehensive or 100% accurate.
If you cannot access the Remington site or any of the online databases, contacting Remington directly may be an option. Locate their contact information, usually on their official website. Be prepared to provide your firearm’s serial number, the model if known, and any other details that may be relevant. While contacting the manufacturer directly is a reliable method, response times may vary.
Interpreting the Information
Once you’ve successfully completed your Remington 700 serial number lookup, you will receive information about your rifle. This information may include its manufacture date, model designation, and any other unique features. Let’s break down how to interpret the most common pieces of data:
The date of manufacture is usually the first and most accessible piece of information. It is often indicated by a letter that correlates to a month. With the information from the Remington site, or the online databases, you should find the month and the year your rifle was manufactured.
Knowing the model or variant of your rifle is crucial for identifying replacement parts or understanding its specific characteristics. The model information may appear as a specific code (such as BDL, ADL, SPS, etc.) or a brief description. This allows you to learn more about the features, the stock type, barrel length, and other special characteristics of your specific rifle.
Staying Safe and Taking Action
The final and arguably most critical aspect of any Remington 700 serial number lookup is to check for any recalls. Firearms manufacturers may issue recalls for safety reasons. These recalls may include mechanical failures, or issues that could lead to accidental discharge.
Search for the recall information directly from the manufacturer, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), or through reputable gun forums.
If your Remington 700 is subject to a recall, it’s essential to take action. Contact Remington or the appropriate service center to learn about the repair process. This will typically involve shipping your rifle to the manufacturer or an authorized repair facility, where the necessary modifications will be made.
Addressing Common Issues
Sometimes the Remington 700 serial number search isn’t easy. Here are some common challenges and potential solutions:
If you’re having trouble locating the serial number, revisit the section above on “Where to Find the Identifier.” Ensure you’re checking all the recommended locations and using appropriate lighting and cleaning techniques.
If you enter your serial number into a lookup tool, and find no information, it’s possible that the database does not include your model. Try a different resource or contact Remington directly.
If the information you find doesn’t match your rifle’s known features, double-check your source or seek help from a gunsmith to verify the information.
Conclusion: Embark on Your Investigation
By understanding the *Remington 700 serial number lookup* process, you’ve taken an important step toward appreciating and safeguarding your rifle. The process not only uncovers the history of your firearm, but also allows you to prioritize safety and maintain your rifle’s value. Armed with the knowledge from this guide, you are now ready to explore the secrets your Remington 700 serial number holds. So, begin your search and discover the stories and the legacy embedded within your exceptional firearm. Take the time now to look up your serial number. Your rifle will thank you.
