The Remington 870 pump-action shotgun is a legendary firearm, prized for its reliability, versatility, and longevity. But with millions manufactured since its introduction in 1950, pinpointing the exact year of manufacture for a specific 870 can be tricky. This guide will walk you through various methods to determine when your Remington 870 was made, providing you with the tools and knowledge to trace its history.
Understanding Remington 870 Serial Numbers
The most reliable way to date a Remington 870 is through its serial number. However, Remington's serial number system isn't straightforward; it's evolved over the decades, and different variations exist. There isn't a single, publicly accessible database that directly translates serial numbers to manufacturing dates.
The Challenges of Remington 870 Serial Number Dating:
- No Central Database: Remington doesn't maintain a publicly accessible database linking serial numbers to production dates.
- Evolving System: The serial number system has changed over the years, making it difficult to create a universal key.
- Variations by Model: Different models (Wingmaster, Express, etc.) may have slightly different serial number schemes.
How to Find Your Remington 870 Serial Number
The serial number is typically located on the receiver, which is the main body of the shotgun. It's usually stamped on the underside or side, often near the trigger guard. You might need to carefully clean the area to make the number clearly visible.
Using Online Resources and Forums
While no official database exists, several online resources and forums dedicated to firearms enthusiasts can help you date your Remington 870. These resources often rely on community-gathered information and shared experiences to approximate manufacturing years based on serial numbers.
Tips for Using Online Resources:
- Be Specific: Provide the complete serial number, including any prefixes or suffixes.
- Specify the Model: Indicate the specific model of your 870 (e.g., Wingmaster, Express, Police Magnum).
- Be Patient: Getting a precise date may require some detective work and engaging with the online community.
Examples of Useful Resources:
- Gun Forums: Websites and forums dedicated to firearms often have threads or sections for identifying and dating firearms.
- Remington Collectors' Groups: Connect with Remington collectors who may possess more detailed information.
Clues Beyond the Serial Number: Visual Inspection
While the serial number is the best starting point, a visual inspection can provide helpful clues. Look for the following:
- Rollmarks: Examine the receiver for markings that indicate the manufacturer and potentially the year of production.
- Barrel Markings: The barrel might contain additional information that helps with dating.
- Stock and Forend: The wood type, finish, and overall condition can offer hints regarding the gun's age.
Note: Visual inspection alone is unreliable for precise dating; use it as supporting evidence in conjunction with serial number analysis.
Understanding Remington's Production History
Knowing the general production history of the Remington 870 helps contextualize your findings. Remington 870 production significantly increased after World War II and has continued steadily for decades. Understanding the periods of significant production and model changes can assist in narrowing down the possible manufacturing date.
Case Study: Dating a Remington 870 Express
Let's consider a hypothetical example. An individual finds a Remington 870 Express with a serial number beginning with "E57XXX". By consulting online forums and researching Remington's production history, they discover that "E" prefixes were used for Express models during a specific time period (e.g., the late 1990s to early 2000s). Combining this information with the numerical portion of the serial number and input from online communities, they can reasonably estimate the year of manufacture.
Conclusion: A Collaborative Approach
Dating a Remington 870 requires a multifaceted approach. While a definitive date might be elusive, combining careful serial number analysis, online research, and visual inspection provides the most accurate possible estimation. Remember to engage with online communities and collectors for additional assistance and insights; the process can be a rewarding journey into the history of this iconic firearm.