Finding information about your Remington 1187 shotgun can be valuable for several reasons: confirming its authenticity, determining its manufacturing date, understanding its history, and even for potential resale or insurance purposes. A Remington 1187 serial number lookup is the key to unlocking this information. This guide will walk you through the process and provide insights into what you can discover.
Understanding Remington 1187 Serial Numbers
The serial number on your Remington 1187 is a unique identifier, typically found on the receiver, under the barrel or on the side of the receiver. It's a crucial piece of information that links your specific firearm to its manufacturing details. Unlike some manufacturers who publicly share databases of serial numbers and manufacturing dates, Remington's information is not readily accessible through a simple online lookup tool. This is due to privacy concerns and the potential for misuse of such data.
Why a Simple Online Lookup Might Not Work
Many people search online for a straightforward "Remington 1187 serial number lookup" tool, expecting an instant result. Unfortunately, this direct method is often unsuccessful. Remington, like many firearm manufacturers, does not maintain a publicly accessible database for serial number lookups. This is a deliberate measure to protect the privacy of gun owners and prevent the potential misuse of the information.
Alternative Methods for Finding Information About Your Remington 1187
While a direct online lookup is unlikely to yield results, several alternative methods can help you gather information about your shotgun:
1. Contacting Remington Directly
This is often the most reliable method, though it might require some patience. Contacting Remington's customer service department is your best bet to get information directly from the source. Be prepared to provide the serial number and other identifying information about your firearm. They may be able to provide you with the manufacturing date or other relevant details based on your serial number. Note that their response time might vary.
2. Consulting with a Firearms Expert or Gunsmith
Experienced gunsmiths often have access to resources and databases that can help them identify the age and specifications of various firearms, including Remington 1187 shotguns. They may be able to assist you in determining the approximate manufacturing date of your shotgun based on the serial number and other visible markings. This is a good alternative if contacting Remington is proving difficult.
3. Utilizing Online Forums and Communities
Engaging with online communities of Remington 1187 owners can be beneficial. Forums and social media groups dedicated to firearms often have knowledgeable members who might be able to offer insights based on their own experience with similar serial numbers or models. However, always be cautious about the information you receive from online sources.
4. Checking Collector Resources
For older or rarer models, resources from collectors could be helpful. Books, magazines, and online resources specializing in antique firearms or Remington firearms could offer some insights into serial number ranges and associated manufacturing years. This requires more dedicated research.
What Information Can You Potentially Find?
Depending on the method you use and the available information, you might be able to determine the following:
- Manufacturing Date: This is often the most sought-after information. The manufacturing date helps establish the age of your shotgun.
- Model Variations: Knowing the manufacturing date helps to determine which variations or specific features your shotgun may have, as designs can change over time.
- Authenticity Verification: Confirming the authenticity of your Remington 1187 is crucial if you plan to sell it, ensuring it's not a counterfeit.
- Parts Availability: Understanding the age of your shotgun can inform you about the availability of replacement parts. Older models may have parts that are harder to find.
Important Considerations
- Privacy: Remember that sharing your serial number online carries a privacy risk. Exercise caution when sharing this information.
- Accuracy: Information obtained from unofficial sources might not always be entirely accurate. Always verify information from multiple reliable sources.
- Legality: Be mindful of local laws and regulations related to firearms ownership and information sharing.
Finding information about your Remington 1187 through a serial number lookup might require some effort, but utilizing the methods outlined above increases your chances of success. Remember to prioritize your safety and adhere to all relevant laws and regulations.