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Decoding Your Remington 1100: A Comprehensive Guide to Date of Manufacture

The Remington 1100 shotgun is a true American classic, renowned for its smooth action, reliability, and widespread popularity among hunters and sport shooters alike. If you own an 1100, or are considering purchasing one, understanding its date of manufacture is crucial for several reasons. It can influence its value, help you identify specific production changes or recalls, and simply connect you to the history of your firearm. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to accurately determine the age of your Remington 1100 shotgun, offering detailed explanations, practical tips, and expert insights to ensure you get it right.

We’ll delve into the intricacies of Remington’s serial number system, date codes, and other identifying marks, giving you the knowledge to confidently decipher your shotgun’s history. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new owner, this guide will empower you with the expertise to unlock the story behind your Remington 1100.

Understanding the Importance of Knowing Your Remington 1100’s Age

Determining the date of manufacture of your Remington 1100 isn’t just about satisfying curiosity; it serves several practical purposes:

Historical Significance: Knowing the age connects you to the history of your firearm.
Valuation: The date significantly impacts the shotgun’s value, especially for collectors. Certain years or specific production runs may be more desirable.
Parts Compatibility: The Remington 1100 underwent various changes throughout its production run. Knowing the date ensures you purchase the correct replacement parts.
Safety Recalls: Identifying the manufacturing date allows you to check for any applicable safety recalls that may affect your shotgun.

Ignoring the date of manufacture can lead to costly mistakes, inaccurate valuations, or even safety concerns. Taking the time to properly identify your shotgun’s age is a worthwhile investment.

The Remington Serial Number System: A Key to Unlocking the Date

Remington’s serial number system is the primary method for determining the date of manufacture for the 1100 shotgun. However, it’s not always a straightforward process. The system has evolved over time, and understanding these changes is crucial for accurate identification.

Early Remington 1100 shotguns (produced before 1968) generally had serial numbers without letter prefixes or suffixes. These numbers were simply sequential, starting from a low number and increasing as production continued. However, pinpointing the exact year based solely on the serial number is difficult for these early models, as Remington didn’t keep detailed records publicly available.

For shotguns manufactured after 1968, Remington introduced a letter coding system that provides a more precise way to determine the year of manufacture. This system uses a combination of letters to represent the month and year of production. The location of the serial number is typically on the left side of the receiver. It’s important to note that this coding system can sometimes be confusing, as letters were reused over different decades. Context, along with other markings on the shotgun, is critical for accurate dating.

Decoding the Letter Codes: Month and Year

The key to deciphering the date of manufacture lies in understanding Remington’s letter codes. These codes are stamped on the barrel of the shotgun, typically near the receiver. The code consists of two or three letters, representing the month and year of manufacture.

Here’s a breakdown of the month codes:

B – January
L – February
A – March
C – April
K – May
E – June
X – July
Z – August
Y – September
U – October
T – November
S – December

The year codes are more complex, as Remington reused letters over the years. Therefore, you’ll need to consider the context and any other markings on the shotgun to determine the correct decade. Here are some of the most common year codes:

F – 1960
G – 1961
H – 1962
J – 1963
K – 1964
L – 1965
M – 1966
N – 1967
P – 1968
R – 1969
S – 1970
T – 1971
U – 1972
W – 1973
X – 1974
Y – 1975
Z – 1976
A – 1977
B – 1978
C – 1979
D – 1980
E – 1981
F – 1982
G – 1983
H – 1984
I – 1985
J – 1986
K – 1987
L – 1988
M – 1989
N – 1990
O – 1991
P – 1992
Q – 1993
R – 1994
S – 1995
T – 1996
U – 1997
V – 1998
W – 1999
X – 2000
Y – 2001
Z – 2002
A – 2003
B – 2004
C – 2005
D – 2006
E – 2007
F – 2008
G – 2009
H – 2010
I – 2011
J – 2012
K – 2013
L – 2014
M – 2015
N – 2016
P – 2017
R – 2018
S – 2019
T – 2020
U – 2021
V – 2022
W – 2023
X – 2024

Example: A code of “AS” would indicate March 1970 or March 1995. Further examination of the shotgun’s features and markings would be necessary to determine the correct year.

Location of Date Codes and Serial Numbers on Your Remington 1100

Knowing where to find the serial number and date codes is essential. The serial number is typically located on the left side of the receiver, just above the trigger guard. The date code is usually stamped on the left side of the barrel, near the receiver. In some cases, it might be on the right side, but the left is the most common location.

Ensure you have good lighting and a magnifying glass if needed, as the markings can be small and sometimes faint. Clean the area if necessary to ensure you can clearly see the codes.

Common Markings and Proof Marks: Adding Context to the Date

In addition to the serial number and date codes, other markings can provide valuable clues about the shotgun’s history and date of manufacture. These markings often include proof marks, which are stamps applied by the manufacturer to indicate that the firearm has passed certain quality control tests.

Remington used various proof marks throughout the 1100’s production run. These marks can include:

“REP” in an oval: This is a common Remington proof mark.
Inspector’s Marks: Small, often single-letter stamps indicating inspection.
Gauge Markings: Clearly indicating the gauge of the shotgun (e.g., 12 GA, 20 GA).

While these markings don’t directly reveal the date of manufacture, they can help narrow down the possibilities when combined with the serial number and date codes. For example, the presence of a specific proof mark used only during a certain period can help confirm the decade of manufacture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues in Date Identification

Identifying the date of manufacture isn’t always straightforward. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:

Illegible Markings: Years of use or improper storage can make the markings difficult to read. Try using a soft brush and a mild solvent to gently clean the area. Good lighting and a magnifying glass are essential.
Missing Date Codes: In rare cases, the date code might be missing. This could be due to a manufacturing error or damage to the barrel. In such cases, the serial number is your best bet, though it provides less precise dating.
Rebarreled Shotguns: If the barrel has been replaced, the date code on the barrel will not match the original date of manufacture of the receiver. Check for any signs of aftermarket work or inconsistencies in the finish between the barrel and receiver.
Conflicting Information: Sometimes, the serial number and date codes might seem contradictory. This could be due to errors in Remington’s records or variations in production. In such cases, consulting with a Remington expert or collector is recommended.

Resources for Further Research: Online Databases and Expert Assistance

Several online resources can assist in your research. Gun forums dedicated to Remington firearms are excellent places to ask questions and share information. Many experienced collectors and enthusiasts are willing to help identify the date of manufacture of your 1100. However, always verify information from online sources with reliable data.

Consider contacting a qualified gunsmith or firearms appraiser specializing in Remington shotguns for expert assistance. They can provide a professional assessment and accurate dating based on their knowledge and experience.

The Remington 1100: A Legacy of Innovation and Reliability

The Remington 1100 is more than just a shotgun; it’s a symbol of American ingenuity and craftsmanship. Introduced in 1963, it quickly became one of the most popular semi-automatic shotguns ever produced. Its innovative gas-operated system reduced recoil and improved reliability, making it a favorite among hunters and sport shooters.

Over the years, the 1100 has been offered in various gauges and configurations, catering to a wide range of shooting disciplines. From upland bird hunting to clay target shooting, the Remington 1100 has proven its versatility and durability.

Caring for Your Remington 1100 to Preserve Its Value and Longevity

Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the value and longevity of your Remington 1100. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and proper storage will help prevent rust, corrosion, and wear. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance is crucial.

Consider having your shotgun professionally serviced periodically to ensure it remains in top working condition. A qualified gunsmith can inspect for any potential problems and perform necessary repairs or adjustments.

Why the Remington 1100 Remains a Cherished Firearm Today

Despite being in production for many decades, the Remington 1100 remains a highly sought-after firearm. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its quality, reliability, and timeless design. Many shooters appreciate its smooth action, comfortable handling, and versatility.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or a collector, the Remington 1100 offers a unique combination of performance, history, and value. Understanding its date of manufacture is just one aspect of appreciating this iconic shotgun.

Unlocking the Past: Final Thoughts on Dating Your Remington 1100

Determining the date of manufacture of your Remington 1100 shotgun is a rewarding endeavor that connects you to the rich history of this iconic firearm. By carefully examining the serial number, date codes, and other markings, you can unlock the story behind your shotgun and gain a deeper appreciation for its value and significance.

Take the time to research your Remington 1100, and you’ll be rewarded with a greater understanding of its place in firearms history. Share your findings and experiences with fellow enthusiasts to contribute to the collective knowledge of this beloved shotgun. If you have any questions or insights about dating Remington 1100 shotguns, please share them in the comments below. Your contribution could help another owner unlock the past of their own treasured firearm.