The Remington 870 shotgun, a legendary firearm known for its reliability and versatility, has a rich history reflected in its serial numbers. Understanding your Remington 870's serial number can unlock valuable information about its manufacturing date, history, and even potential value. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Remington 870 receiver serial numbers and how to decipher their meaning.
Deciphering Your Remington 870 Serial Number
Unfortunately, there's no single, publicly available database that instantly translates Remington 870 serial numbers into precise manufacturing dates. Remington's internal records are often proprietary and not accessible to the public. However, by understanding the general patterns and utilizing resources like online forums and collector communities, you can gain a good estimate.
What the Serial Number Doesn't Tell You Directly:
- Exact Manufacturing Date: While you can't get an exact date, you can narrow it down to a range.
- Specific Features: The serial number alone won't tell you the barrel length, stock type, or other modifications.
What the Serial Number Can Help You Determine:
- Approximate Manufacturing Year: By comparing your serial number to known ranges compiled by collectors and enthusiasts, you can get a close approximation of the year your Remington 870 was made. These ranges are based on observations and patterns, not official Remington data.
- Potential Value: Knowing the approximate age of your shotgun can help you assess its potential value, especially for collectible models. Condition, rarity of features, and market demand play a significant role as well.
- Authenticity: In the case of potential counterfeits or altered firearms, the serial number can be crucial in verifying authenticity.
Finding Your Remington 870 Serial Number
The serial number is typically located on the receiver, usually on the left side. It might be stamped, engraved, or otherwise marked. Check carefully; it's often a combination of letters and numbers.
Resources for Dating Your Remington 870
While Remington doesn't offer a public serial number lookup, several avenues can help you estimate the manufacturing date:
- Online Forums and Communities: Dedicated firearms forums and collector groups often have threads dedicated to Remington 870 serial numbers. Experienced members can provide guidance and insights based on their own research and collections.
- Gun Value Websites: Websites that provide firearm valuations often have sections with general serial number information or allow users to submit data for community assistance. However, remember that these are estimates and not definitive answers.
- Books and Publications: Numerous books and publications on firearms and Remington shotguns might contain information on serial number ranges and their corresponding manufacturing years.
Importance of Proper Research
Remember that any date you find using these methods is an estimate. Accuracy varies depending on the available information and the specific range of your serial number. Be wary of websites or individuals claiming definitive dates without robust supporting evidence.
Beyond the Serial Number: Assessing Your Remington 870
While the serial number provides a historical context, thoroughly assessing your Remington 870's condition is crucial in determining its value and potential restoration needs. Consider factors such as:
- Overall Condition: Is the gun in excellent, good, fair, or poor condition? Are there any signs of rust, wear, or damage?
- Original Parts: Are all the components original? Modifications or replacements can affect value.
- Accessories: Does it come with original accessories like the box, manual, or cleaning kit?
By combining serial number research with a thorough inspection, you can gain a deep understanding of your Remington 870 shotgun's history and value. Remember to handle firearms safely and responsibly. Always follow local and state laws regarding firearms ownership and handling.
