The Remington Model 1100, a legendary semi-automatic shotgun, has earned its place in history through decades of reliable performance. For collectors, enthusiasts, and even those simply curious about their firearm's history, understanding the Remington Model 1100 serial number is key to unlocking a wealth of information. This guide delves into the intricacies of these serial numbers, helping you decipher the age, origin, and even potential variations of your Model 1100. Understanding your Remington Model 1100 serial number can be a rewarding journey into the firearm's fascinating past.
Unlocking the Secrets: What Your Remington Model 1100 Serial Number Reveals
The serial number, typically found on the receiver, is more than just a random string of characters. It serves as a unique identifier, providing a crucial link to the firearm's manufacturing history. By carefully examining the serial number, you can potentially determine:
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Year of Manufacture: Remington's production records, while not publicly accessible in their entirety, are often used by collectors and researchers to estimate the manufacturing year based on serial number ranges. Numerous online forums and databases dedicated to Remington firearms maintain collections of this data.
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Place of Manufacture: Remington firearms have been produced at several facilities throughout their history. While the serial number itself may not always explicitly state the location, cross-referencing with known production periods and factory information can sometimes pinpoint the origin.
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Model Variations: The Model 1100 underwent numerous variations throughout its production run. The serial number can sometimes help identify specific features, such as barrel length, stock type, and choke configurations, although this is less precise than determining the year or place of manufacture.
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Potential Value: Understanding the age and variations of your Model 1100 can significantly impact its collector's value. Rare variations or those in excellent condition command significantly higher prices.
How to Find Your Remington Model 1100 Serial Number
Before we delve into deciphering the serial number itself, it's crucial to know where to find it. The serial number is typically located on the receiver of the firearm, usually on the left side. It's often stamped or engraved and may be relatively easy to locate. However, depending on the age and condition of the firearm, it may be worn or partially obscured.
If you are having trouble finding it, consider these steps:
- Clean the firearm: Dirt and grime can obscure markings. A careful cleaning might reveal the serial number.
- Use a flashlight: A strong flashlight can help illuminate areas with poor lighting.
- Consult a firearms expert: If you're still having trouble, consult with a knowledgeable gunsmith or collector. They may have specialized tools or knowledge to assist.
Deciphering the Remington Model 1100 Serial Number: A Practical Approach
Unfortunately, there isn't a publicly available, comprehensive database that directly translates Remington Model 1100 serial numbers into precise dates and factory locations. The information is often fragmented and spread across various resources.
To determine your firearm’s production date and location, you'll need to combine information from several sources:
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Online Forums and Communities: Numerous online forums dedicated to firearms, particularly those focused on Remington shotguns, are invaluable resources. Experienced collectors often share knowledge and data about serial number ranges and their corresponding production years.
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Collector's Guides and Books: Various books and guides specifically focus on Remington firearms and their history. These resources may contain charts or tables that correlate serial number ranges with manufacturing dates.
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Remington Historical Data (Limited Availability): While Remington itself may not offer a public database, they may have internal records which can sometimes be accessed through specialized researchers or historical societies. This avenue often requires significant effort and may not always yield results.
Case Study: Tracing a Specific Remington Model 1100
Let's imagine we have a Remington Model 1100 with the serial number 1100XXXX. We would start by searching online forums and collector's guides. We might find posts or articles discussing serial number ranges from the 1970s, suggesting our shotgun may have been produced within that decade. This initial research then guides our further investigation. We could delve into more specific forums focusing on 1970s Remington Model 1100s, potentially finding data associating specific serial number sub-ranges with particular months of production or even factory locations.
Beyond the Serial Number: Identifying Model Variations
Even with a pinpointed production year, additional research is needed to fully understand your specific Model 1100. Pay close attention to:
- Barrel Length: Standard, modified, or magnum barrels significantly impact functionality and value.
- Stock Type: Wood, synthetic, or specialized stocks can influence both appearance and value.
- Choke Tubes: The presence and type of choke tubes affect the versatility and desirability of your firearm.
Conclusion: Preserving History, One Serial Number at a Time
The Remington Model 1100's enduring popularity reflects its quality and legacy. By understanding your Remington Model 1100 serial number and conducting diligent research, you can uncover its unique history, adding a personal touch to your appreciation of this classic firearm. Remember that this research often requires patience and persistence, but the rewards of connecting with your firearm's past can be truly fulfilling.