Finding the manufacturing date of your classic Remington 1100 shotgun can be a fun and rewarding process, connecting you to its history. This guide will walk you through several methods for determining the year your Remington 1100 was made using its serial number. Knowing the year can enhance your appreciation for your firearm, aiding in valuation and maintenance.
Understanding Remington 1100 Serial Numbers
Remington's serial number system for the Model 1100 isn't straightforward; it didn't follow a simple chronological system throughout its production. The system changed over the years, making definitive dating from serial number alone sometimes difficult. However, with the right resources and approaches, you can get a very good idea of the year your 1100 was manufactured.
Key Factors Affecting Dating:
- Production Year: Remington's production of the Model 1100 spanned several decades, leading to variations in serial number allocation.
- Manufacturing Location: Remington's production facilities might have used different serial number ranges or systems.
- Model Variations: Different versions of the 1100 (like the 1100 Sporting, 1100 Special Purpose, etc.) might have had their own serial number sequences.
Methods to Determine Your Remington 1100's Year of Manufacture
Here's a breakdown of effective ways to pinpoint the production year of your Remington 1100:
1. Using Online Remington 1100 Serial Number Databases:
Several websites offer databases attempting to correlate Remington 1100 serial numbers with manufacturing years. These are often community-built resources, so accuracy can vary. Always use multiple sources to cross-reference information. Be cautious; some sites may be outdated or unreliable.
Steps:
- Locate your Remington 1100's serial number. It's usually stamped on the receiver, often near the ejection port.
- Search several reputable online databases specializing in firearm serial number identification.
- Compare the results from different databases. If there's a consistent result, you've likely found the year.
Caution: These databases are user-contributed and not always perfectly maintained. Discrepancies can occur.
2. Consulting with Remington Experts and Collectors:
Joining online forums, social media groups, or contacting gun appraisal professionals specializing in Remington firearms can prove invaluable. Experienced collectors often possess extensive knowledge of Remington 1100 serial number ranges and can offer informed estimations based on your serial number and other identifying features of your shotgun.
3. Examining the Gun's Features and Markings:
While not providing an exact date, analyzing your 1100's features can help narrow down the possibilities. Certain features were introduced or phased out over the years. These characteristics include:
- Receiver Markings: Look closely at the markings on the receiver. These may include the model name, manufacturer's details, and sometimes production codes that knowledgeable collectors can interpret.
- Stock and Forend: The wood type, finish, and style of the stock and forend can suggest a general time period.
- Choke Tubes: The type of choke tubes (if applicable) can be indicative of the era.
This method is best combined with online databases or expert advice for a more accurate assessment.
4. Utilizing Remington's Records (If Possible):
While accessing Remington's official manufacturing records directly is unlikely for most owners, contacting Remington's customer service (if the company still retains the records) or contacting a reputable firearms archivist might provide access, though this path often yields limited success.
Interpreting Your Findings:
Remember that even with multiple approaches, you might end up with an approximate year rather than a precise date. The various methods provide converging lines of evidence leading to a more probable manufacturing date. Be open to the possibility of a small range of years, rather than expecting pinpoint accuracy.
Conclusion: Pinpointing the Year of Your Remington 1100
Determining the year of manufacture for your Remington 1100 using its serial number requires careful research and multiple approaches. By utilizing online databases, consulting with experts, and examining your firearm's features, you can significantly narrow down the production year and add to your understanding and appreciation of this classic shotgun. Always prioritize using multiple sources to ensure accuracy. Enjoy the journey of discovering your Remington 1100's history!