Whether you’re a dedicated gun collector or a curious owner, understanding the history of your firearm is crucial. The Remington 1100 is one of the most iconic and reliable semi-automatic shotguns ever made. If you own one—or are considering purchasing one—it’s important to be able to trace its history through its serial number. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of performing a Remington 1100 serial number lookup in a clear and reliable way.
Why Serial Numbers Matter
Every firearm carries a unique serial number assigned during the manufacturing process. For the Remington 1100, the serial number helps identify the year of manufacture, model variation, and sometimes even specific production batches. This can be essential for valuation purposes, maintenance, and historical documentation. Additionally, in cases of lost or stolen firearms, serial numbers are crucial for legal recovery.
Step-by-Step Guide to Locating and Decoding Your Serial Number
Step 1: Locate the Serial Number
The serial number on a Remington 1100 is typically located on the left side of the receiver. This is the main housing for the shotgun’s action. Look carefully, as dirt, wear, or engravings might obscure the number.
In many cases, you’ll also find a smaller code stamped on the barrel. This two-letter code can be used to determine the exact production date through Remington’s manufacturer date code system.
Step 2: Decode the Barrel Code
Remington used a barrel date code system comprised of two or three letters. The first letter indicates the production month and the second identifies the year. For example:
- M = June
- D = 1979
Thus, a gun marked “MD” was manufactured in June of 1979. It’s important to note that this date refers to the barrel, not necessarily the entire firearm. If the barrel has been replaced, this code may not accurately represent the shotgun’s original manufacture date.
Step 3: Check the Serial Number Format
Over the years, Remington changed how it formatted serial numbers. Understanding these formatting differences can help narrow down the production period. For example:
- Pre-1968 models may have had no serial number (although this varies).
- Post-1968 models adopted a more consistent serial format, often beginning with a letter followed by numbers (e.g., “L123456V”).
Here’s what the letters typically signify:
- L = Magnum model
- M = 12 gauge
- Suffix “V” = 12 gauge standard
Step 4: Use the Remington Serial Number Chart
Remington Arms Co. has published reference charts that line up serial numbers and alphabetical codes with the corresponding years of production. While these aren’t always officially released, they are widely available online through reputable firearms forums, collector websites, and historical firearms books.
If you’re serious about learning the exact origin of your shotgun, it may be worthwhile to consult:
- A certified firearms appraiser
- Remington customer support (for legacy products)
- Printed collector guides with verified serial number tables
Tips on Verifying Manufacturing History
To ensure your information is accurate, always cross-reference with multiple sources. Be aware that customized or refurbished firearms may not retain original barrels or receivers, which could lead to mismatches between barrel codes and serial numbers.
Also, keep in mind that stolen or illegally modified firearms may have altered or defaced serial numbers. Possession of such firearms can present serious legal repercussions, so always purchase from trusted dealers with clear documentation.
Conclusion
Performing a Remington 1100 serial number lookup is an enlightening exercise that provides insight into the age, value, and origin of your shotgun. By understanding how to interpret both serial numbers and barrel codes, you can become a more informed owner, and possibly even discover your firearm’s place in American firearm history.
From identifying the production date to verifying authenticity, a serial number can unlock a wealth of information. Always proceed carefully and thoughtfully, and when in doubt, consult with experts who specialize in Remington firearms.