The Remington 1100: a shotgun synonymous with reliability, smooth action, and decades of sporting history. But how do you unlock the secrets of its past, specifically, when it was born? That's where the serial number comes in, acting as a birth certificate for your firearm, providing a crucial link to its manufacturing year and sometimes even its specific features. This guide will help you decipher the Remington 1100's serial number and discover its history.
Why Does Knowing the Year Matter?
Understanding the year your Remington 1100 was manufactured is important for several reasons:
- Determining Value: Knowing the year can significantly impact the shotgun's value, especially for collectors. Certain years or specific variations are more desirable than others.
- Parts Compatibility: Over the years, Remington made minor changes to the 1100's design. Knowing the year ensures you purchase compatible replacement parts for repairs or upgrades.
- Historical Significance: Discovering the year connects you to the history of the 1100 and its role in sporting culture. It allows you to appreciate its evolution and its place in Remington's legacy.
- Safety Recalls: Although rare, knowing the year of manufacture allows you to check if your shotgun was subject to any safety recalls.
Decoding the Remington 1100 Serial Number: The Basics
Remington serial numbers can seem like a cryptic code, but they follow a relatively consistent pattern. For the 1100, the key lies in identifying the prefix and suffix codes often present. Here's the general layout:
- Location: The serial number is typically found on the left side of the receiver, either stamped directly onto the metal or on a sticker (though stickers are less common, especially on older models).
- Structure: The serial number will usually consist of a series of numbers, potentially preceded or followed by letters. These letters are the key to determining the manufacture date.
Finding the Date Code: The Secret Sauce
The crucial element in determining the year of manufacture is the date code, which is typically located on the barrel of the Remington 1100. This code consists of two or three letters, with the first letter indicating the month and the second letter indicating the year.
Understanding the Month Codes
Remington uses a letter-based code for each month of the year:
- B - January
- L - February
- A - March
- C - April
- K - May
- E - June
- H - July
- P - August
- S - September
- O - October
- N - November
- D - December
Decoding the Year Codes
The year codes are more complex, as they repeat in cycles. The most common method is the "BLACKPOWDERX" system. Each letter corresponds to a number in order, starting with B = 1, L = 2, and so on. To determine the year of your Remington 1100, you need to look at the letter and compare it to the BLACKPOWDERX system.
Here's how it works:
- B = 1
- L = 2
- A = 3
- C = 4
- K = 5
- P = 6
- O = 7
- W = 8
- D = 9
- E = 0
- R = 1
- X = 2
For example, if your barrel code is "KC", the "K" indicates May and the "C" indicates the year ending in 4. To figure out which decade, you need to use the serial number and overall condition to narrow down the date.
Important Considerations:
- Multiple Proof Marks: Sometimes, you might find multiple sets of letters on the barrel. The correct code is usually the one closest to the receiver.
- Barrel Swaps: Keep in mind that barrels can be swapped. If the barrel code doesn't seem to align with the serial number's general range, it's possible the barrel isn't original to the receiver.
- No Date Code: Some very early models might not have a date code on the barrel. In these cases, you'll need to rely on the serial number and other features to estimate the year of manufacture.
Serial Number Ranges and Approximate Years
While a precise year-by-serial number chart is difficult to create due to Remington's record-keeping practices, we can provide some general ranges and guidance based on publicly available information.
Early Production (1963-1968):
- Serial numbers typically start with a number and progress sequentially.
- Look for the date code on the barrel.
- Features to look for: Early models may have a more polished finish and slightly different checkering patterns.
Mid-Production (1968-1980s):
- Serial numbers continue to be primarily numerical.
- The date code on the barrel remains the primary way to determine the year.
- Features to look for: Changes in stock design and finish become more apparent.
Later Production (1990s-Present):
- Serial numbers may include letter prefixes or suffixes.
- The date code on the barrel is still present.
- Features to look for: Variations in models, such as the Sporting Clays and Competition versions, become more common.
Decoding Serial Number Prefixes and Suffixes (Example)
Remington used letter codes as prefixes to indicate the gun type. Here are some of the common codes you might see on an 1100:
- 8: 12 Gauge
- 3: 20 Gauge Lightweight
- L: 20 Gauge Standard Weight
- N: 16 Gauge
- K: 28 Gauge
- M: .410 Bore
Example Scenario:
Let's say you have a Remington 1100 with a serial number "1234567" and a barrel code of "HB."
- Serial Number: "1234567" – This gives us a general idea that it's likely an earlier model.
- Barrel Code: "HB" – "H" corresponds to July and "B" corresponds to the year ending in 1.
- Putting it together: Based on the serial number and the barrel code, the shotgun was likely manufactured in July of 1971.
Common Variations and Special Editions
The Remington 1100 has been produced in numerous variations over the years, including:
- Standard Models: These are the most common and were available in various gauges and barrel lengths.
- Skeet Models: Designed for skeet shooting, these models often feature specialized chokes and stocks.
- Trap Models: Optimized for trap shooting, these models typically have higher combs and tighter chokes.
- Magnum Models: Chambered for 3-inch shells, these models are suitable for hunting larger game.
- Sporting Clays Models: Designed for sporting clays, these models often feature adjustable stocks and extended chokes.
- Competition Models: Featuring high-end features and finishes for serious competitors.
Identifying which variation you have can further refine your understanding of its history and value. Look for markings on the barrel or receiver that indicate the specific model.
Resources for Further Research
- Remington Society of America: This organization is a valuable resource for collectors and enthusiasts, offering information, forums, and historical data.
- Online Forums: Numerous online forums dedicated to firearms collecting and Remington shotguns can provide insights and assistance from experienced collectors.
- Gunsmiths: A qualified gunsmith can inspect your shotgun and provide an expert opinion on its year of manufacture and originality.
- Blue Book of Gun Values: This book provides estimated values for various firearms based on their condition and year of manufacture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where do I find the serial number on my Remington 1100?
A: The serial number is typically located on the left side of the receiver.
Q: How do I determine the year of manufacture?
A: Look for the date code stamped on the barrel, consisting of two or three letters.
Q: What does the date code "PA" mean?
A: "P" represents August, and "A" represents the year ending in "3." Use the serial number to determine the decade.
Q: Can I trust online serial number databases?
A: While some online resources can be helpful, they are not always accurate. Cross-reference information from multiple sources.
Q: What if my shotgun doesn't have a date code?
A: Some early models might not have a date code. Rely on the serial number and other features to estimate the year.
Conclusion
Unlocking the manufacturing year of your Remington 1100 is a rewarding endeavor, connecting you to its history and helping you understand its value and compatibility. Use the information provided here as a guide, and don't hesitate to consult additional resources or experts for further assistance in your quest to uncover your 1100's past.