Finding the Serial Number on Remington Receivers
Common Locations
The quest to understand your Remington often begins with locating its serial number. Knowing where to look and the common places for these markings is the first step towards unlocking the secrets held by your firearm. While the serial number’s presence is a federal requirement, the exact location can vary slightly based on the model and year of manufacture, but generally remains consistent.
The receiver is, without a doubt, the primary location to begin your search. The receiver, for those unfamiliar, is the core component of a firearm, housing the firing mechanism and often bearing the brunt of the recoil. Think of it as the backbone of your gun. It’s crucial to understand the receiver, as it is often where the serial number is permanently stamped.
The precise location of the serial number on the receiver, however, isn’t always uniform. Some areas are more common than others.
The most common place to find the serial number on a Remington firearm is on the *side of the receiver*. This is often near the ejection port or the magazine well. For example, the iconic Remington 870, a pump-action shotgun that’s become a staple in hunting and law enforcement, typically has its serial number etched on the side of the receiver, usually on the lower left side.
Another frequently encountered location is the *bottom of the receiver*, often near the trigger guard or on the flat bottom surface. The model 700, the rifle is another popular choice for shooters, may have its serial number stamped on the bottom of the receiver.
Less frequently, the serial number might be found on the *top of the receiver*. However, this isn’t as common as the other locations. Be aware of potential variations between model years.
Challenges and Considerations
Finding the serial number isn’t always a walk in the park. Over time, markings can become worn or obscured, making them difficult to decipher. Rust, corrosion, and even simple wear and tear can gradually erase the serial number, obscuring the information. The condition of the firearm will play a significant role in how easily you can read these numbers.
Another factor to consider is whether the firearm has been refinished. Refinishing, while often done to improve the gun’s appearance, can sometimes inadvertently affect the serial number. A fresh coat of bluing or cerakote, if applied improperly, could fill in the stamped characters, making them unreadable.
Caring for Your Firearm’s Markings
If you are dealing with a firearm where the markings are hard to read, gently cleaning the area can sometimes help. Use a soft cloth and a mild solvent, such as a gun-cleaning solution specifically designed for firearms. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as these can further damage the serial number. Do not under any circumstances use wire brushes or excessive force when trying to clean these areas.
In extreme cases, if the serial number is very difficult to make out, and you’re hesitant to clean it yourself, consider seeking the services of a qualified gunsmith. They have experience and the right tools to carefully clean and potentially restore the markings without causing any damage. Remember, the preservation of your serial number is vital.
Unraveling Remington Serial Number Formats
Remington’s serial number systems have evolved over the years, reflecting advancements in manufacturing processes and changes in legal requirements. Understanding these changes is crucial for correctly interpreting the markings on your firearm.
The methods Remington used for marking their firearms have transitioned. Initially, the process wasn’t standardized. As manufacturing techniques developed, so did the serial number systems. One thing remains constant throughout time, however: the serial number’s purpose to identify a unique product.
The General Makeup
A typical Remington serial number comprises a combination of numbers and, in many cases, letters. These letters and numbers, viewed together, usually hold information. The numerical portion generally denotes the order in which the firearm was manufactured. Prefixes and suffixes, which may be letters or letter combinations, add another layer of information. The significance of these can indicate various aspects of the gun’s origins, such as the model or the year it was made.
It’s important to bear in mind that the specific meaning of the prefixes and suffixes, as well as the numerical sequence, can vary depending on the model and the period in which it was made. Some models had unique systems, so generalizing is often difficult. This is why knowing the model of your firearm is often key to decoding the serial number and using this information effectively.
Examples of Decoding
Let’s delve into a few popular Remington models to show how these systems have evolved. This will give you a practical, model-specific understanding of what you might encounter.
Model 870
The iconic Remington 870 shotgun has been a mainstay since its introduction. Serial numbers on this model often have a letter prefix. Prior to the late 1960s, these prefixes were usually just numerical. Over time, and based on the models, the prefixes have varied, indicating manufacturing changes. Serial number ranges are used to indicate manufacture dates. Consulting a gun value guide or online resources can help you correlate the serial number with the production year for your 870.
Model 700
The Remington Model 700, a bolt-action rifle, has its own unique serial number system. While the exact meaning of the prefixes and suffixes may vary depending on the era and specific variations of the 700, careful examination of the serial number in conjunction with resources like gun value guides is the best way to determine your rifle’s production year. The style of receiver can be a clue. Older model 700s used different stamping styles than the later models. These subtle differences can help pinpoint the production dates.
Model 742
The Remington Model 742, a semi-automatic rifle, can be another case where serial numbers help in dating the firearm. Again, finding the serial number is easy to do, but decoding it can require a bit more research to correlate with the production timeline.
Resources for Decoding
Fortunately, you are not alone in the task of deciphering your Remington’s serial number. Several resources are readily available to assist you.
Remington’s official website *can* be a valuable resource. However, availability of this information may vary depending on their archives and the amount of data they have available.
Online gun forums and enthusiast communities often have dedicated sections where experienced collectors and enthusiasts can offer assistance. Asking questions in these forums, providing your serial number, and the model of your Remington firearm is a quick way to get help.
Gun value guides, available in print and online, often contain serial number lookup information or tables that correlate serial numbers with manufacturing dates. However, keep in mind these guides may not be completely exhaustive.
Using the Serial Number to Understand Your Firearm
The ability to find and decode the serial number unlocks a range of information about your Remington, and provides a level of historical insight that enhances the ownership experience.
Dating Your Firearm
One of the primary uses of a serial number is to determine the approximate manufacturing date of your firearm. Knowing the age can be a valuable tool. It can help you determine the value of your firearm. It can help you find replacement parts that fit your model year, or help you determine if it is in the correct configuration for the model year.
While finding the exact date of manufacture can be challenging, you can often narrow down the production year. This is where resources such as those mentioned earlier, like gun value guides and online forums, become invaluable.
Identifying the Model
Serial numbers are often associated with specific models. So, the serial number might, in some cases, help confirm the model of your firearm, especially if the markings on the firearm itself are faint or damaged. It can help determine if the firearm is genuine and hasn’t been altered. However, careful consideration of the firearm’s features and markings should always be used in conjunction with the serial number to ensure accuracy.
Legal and Practical Implications
A serial number is more than just a historical marker; it also has significant legal and practical implications. In most jurisdictions, the serial number is used for firearm registration. It’s a unique identifier that links your firearm to you.
In the event of a theft or loss, the serial number is used to report the missing firearm. The serial number makes identification easier. The serial number helps law enforcement recover the firearm, increasing the odds of its return.
The serial number is also a key piece of information in understanding any legal requirements related to your firearm, so be sure to keep this information in a safe and accessible location.
Value and Rarity
Serial numbers can also affect the value of your Remington. Certain serial number ranges may correspond to rare or limited-production models. For collectors, this can significantly increase the value of the firearm. Special edition firearms with low serial numbers are another category that has a huge impact on price and rarity.
Important Considerations and a Word of Caution
There are crucial things to keep in mind when dealing with serial numbers.
Disclaimer
The information presented here is for informational purposes only. The interpretation of serial numbers can vary based on the specific model and year of manufacture. Any attempts to modify, alter, or remove serial numbers are illegal and can lead to severe legal consequences. For complex questions or concerns, consult a certified gunsmith or firearms expert.
Documentation is Important
Keep accurate records of your firearms. Include the serial number, model, and purchase date. Store this information in a safe and accessible place.
Safety First
Safe gun handling practices should always be followed. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy. Follow all applicable safety rules.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your Remington, including its serial number, enriches the experience of firearm ownership. By understanding your firearm’s history, you gain a deeper appreciation for its craftsmanship and the legacy it represents. From confirming the model to determining its age, the serial number provides valuable information. Take the time to locate and examine the serial number on your Remington. This seemingly simple action will unlock a wealth of knowledge. The information helps you to better understand and appreciate this fine American firearm.
