Finding the Hidden Codes: Where to Look for the Serial Number
Where to Look for the Serial Number
The Remington 870. The name conjures images of dependability, ruggedness, and American heritage. This pump-action shotgun has earned its place as an icon in the world of firearms, finding favor with law enforcement, hunters, and home defenders alike. But what secrets does your Remington 870 hold? Beyond its inherent reliability lies a story often hidden in its very DNA: its serial number. Understanding the serial number on your Remington 870 is a key that unlocks a wealth of information about its past. It reveals clues about its manufacturing date, features, and potentially its journey through time. This guide will empower you to decipher these numerical codes, becoming a more knowledgeable owner and perhaps uncovering the hidden story of your shotgun.
Before we delve into the meaning behind the numbers, let’s locate where these crucial identifiers reside on your Remington 870. The primary location for the serial number is almost always on the receiver. The receiver is the main body of the shotgun, the part that houses the bolt and trigger mechanism.
You’ll typically find the serial number stamped on the side or underside of the receiver. The exact location may vary slightly depending on the model and the era of production. Some early models might have the serial number on the top of the receiver, near the ejection port. Carefully examine the surface of the receiver for any engraved or stamped markings. Often, the serial number is accompanied by other markings, such as the model designation or the Remington logo.
The barrel itself may also carry markings, including the model designation, chamber size, and sometimes, a date code. While the barrel markings are important for identifying the gun’s specifications, the serial number on the receiver is the primary key for tracking its manufacturing history.
Unlocking the Secrets: Understanding Serial Number Formats
The way Remington 870 serial numbers are structured has evolved over time. The most significant change occurred in the late sixties, impacting how we interpret those numerical sequences.
Before the Regulation
Prior to the implementation of the Gun Control Act, the serial number formats were less standardized. There was greater variation in how these numbers were applied. You might encounter serial numbers consisting of a combination of letters and numbers. Early production 870s might have relatively simple serial number configurations. In some extremely early examples, it’s even *possible* to find a Remington 870 without a stamped serial number at all. This is rare, but it underscores the importance of researching your specific model and year of manufacture.
The Standard Emerges: Post-Sixties Numbering
The Gun Control Act of ushered in a new era for firearm serial numbers. Its requirements mandated standardized serial numbering systems to help track firearms. Remington complied by adopting a more consistent and informative system. This is the system you’ll find on the vast majority of Remington 870s in circulation today.
The post-regulations serial numbers typically consist of a sequence of digits and, most importantly, a two-letter date code. The first letter usually signifies the month of manufacture, and the second letter represents the year. This ingenious system provides a relatively precise manufacturing date, a critical tool for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Cracking the Code: The Remington Date Codes
The Remington date codes are the key to unlocking your shotgun’s age. Here’s the code:
January: B
February: C
March: D
April: E
May: F
June: G
July: H
August: I
September: J
October: K
November: L
December: M
The second letter is a little more nuanced, representing the year. You may need to refer to external resources to determine the precise year corresponding to the second letter. It’s essential to consult a reliable reference chart, often found on gun forums, websites dedicated to gun history, or specialized books. This chart provides the corresponding years for the second letter in the date code.
For example, if your Remington 870 has a serial number with the date code “BK,” you would use the code to determine that your shotgun was manufactured in October. By using this code, it unlocks the history of the firearm as you learn about the gun’s manufacturing and the date it was assembled.
Applying Your Knowledge: Dating Your Shotgun
Armed with the serial number and the date code information, you can now estimate the manufacturing date of your Remington 870.
First, locate the serial number on your firearm. Then, identify the two-letter date code. Use the date code chart to determine the month of manufacture. Next, you’ll need to determine the year. Reference online resources or reference materials that correlate the second letter of the date code with the manufacturing year. These resources are often meticulously maintained and provide critical historical details.
For example, let’s say you find a serial number with the date code “AL”. Using a reference chart, you might determine that “A” represents January, and “L” represents the year . This means your Remington 870 was likely manufactured in January.
However, keep in mind that dating firearms can have its own complications. Manufacturing processes might have a slight lag, which means there might be some discrepancy in dating the gun.
More Than Just a Date: Using Serial Numbers for Identification
While dating is a primary function of serial numbers, it can also assist in identifying certain models or variations.
Consider the markings, the style of the stock, the forearm, and the type of finish. The serial number range can sometimes provide insights into the specific features and configurations available during that period. For instance, if you know your 870 was manufactured in the early seventies, and you find it has a certain type of engraving or wood grain, you can use that as part of your research in dating.
Beyond the Numbers: Value, Collectibility, and Legal Considerations
The serial number can influence the value and collectibility of your Remington 870. A pristine example from a specific era, perhaps with rare features, may be highly sought after by collectors. The serial number helps to establish the provenance and authenticity of the firearm, crucial elements when determining its value.
Additionally, be aware of the legal requirements surrounding firearm ownership. In many jurisdictions, you’re required to register your firearm, and this is typically done using its serial number. Always familiarize yourself with and comply with all federal, state, and local laws regarding firearm ownership and registration. This article provides general information and isn’t legal advice. Consult local authorities for specifics.
Conclusion
Decoding your Remington 870’s serial number is a fascinating journey into the history of this iconic shotgun. By understanding the serial number formats, date codes, and the information they unlock, you become a more informed and appreciative owner. This process enables you to understand your firearm better, to research its background, and to appreciate its place in firearms history.
Further Exploration
For more in-depth research, consult these resources:
- Remington’s official website. While they may not offer direct serial number lookups, their website offers background information on the 870.
- Dedicated gun forums. Online communities can provide answers to your questions and a treasure trove of information. Search the web for forums on Remington shotguns or firearms in general.
- Specialized books on firearms history.
Enjoy your journey of discovery, and appreciate the history and the timeless value of your Remington 870.
