Unlocking the Past: How to Tell How Old a Remington 870 Wingmaster Shotgun Is
The Remington 870 Wingmaster is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability, smooth action, and enduring quality. If you’ve inherited one, found one at a gun show, or simply want to know more about your own, you’re likely wondering: “How old is my Remington 870 Wingmaster?” Determining the age of your firearm can unlock a piece of history, offering insights into its manufacturing period, potential value, and the evolution of this iconic model. This comprehensive guide provides the knowledge and techniques needed to accurately date your Remington 870 Wingmaster, ensuring you appreciate its legacy fully. We will delve into serial numbers, barrel codes, and other identifying marks, providing a step-by-step approach to uncovering your shotgun’s birth year.
Decoding the Remington 870: A Guide to Age Identification
Determining the age of a Remington 870 Wingmaster involves a combination of techniques, primarily focusing on the serial number and barrel codes. These markings contain valuable information that, when properly interpreted, can pinpoint the year of manufacture. However, the process isn’t always straightforward, as Remington’s coding system has evolved over time. This section will provide a detailed methodology for navigating these complexities.
Understanding Serial Numbers
The serial number is a unique identifier assigned to each firearm. On a Remington 870 Wingmaster, the serial number is typically located on the receiver, usually on the left side. Examining the serial number closely is the first step in determining the age of your shotgun.
Unfortunately, Remington serial number records are not publicly available. However, certain serial number prefixes and ranges are associated with specific production periods. Here’s a breakdown of some common serial number prefixes and what they might indicate:
- No Prefix: Older models, generally manufactured before 1950, may not have a prefix. These are often the most challenging to date and may require additional research based on other features.
- “S” Prefix: This prefix is commonly found on 12-gauge models manufactured from the 1950s onward.
- “W” Prefix: Typically indicates a 16-gauge model.
- “V” Prefix: Usually denotes a 20-gauge model.
- “N” Prefix: Often indicates a 28-gauge model.
- “H” Prefix: Commonly found on .410 bore models.
- “RS” Prefix: Indicates that the shotgun was manufactured at the Remington plant in Ilion, NY.
- “US” Prefix: Indicates that the shotgun was manufactured at the Remington plant in Utica, NY.
It’s important to note that these prefixes are not definitive and can sometimes overlap. The serial number is just one piece of the puzzle. If your shotgun has a serial number without a prefix, it may be a very early model, and dating it will rely more heavily on barrel codes and other features.
Decoding Remington Barrel Codes
Remington barrel codes are a more reliable method for determining the manufacturing date of your 870 Wingmaster. These codes are stamped on the left side of the barrel, near the receiver. The codes consist of a series of letters, typically two or three. The first two letters indicate the month and year of manufacture, respectively. If there is a third letter, it usually represents a shift code or some other internal manufacturing designation and can be ignored for dating purposes.
Here’s how to decipher the month and year codes:
Month Codes:
- B – January
- L – February
- A – March
- C – April
- K – May
- P – June
- O – July
- W – August
- D – September
- E – October
- R – November
- X – December
Year Codes:
The year codes are more complex and require a key to decode. Here’s a table showing the Remington year codes from 1930 to 2000. Note that the codes repeat every 76 years, so knowing the approximate era of your shotgun is crucial for accurate dating.
| Code | Year | Code | Year | Code | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Y | 1930 | M | 1956 | PP | 1982 |
| Z | 1931 | N | 1957 | RR | 1983 |
| A | 1932 | P | 1958 | SS | 1984 |
| B | 1933 | Q | 1959 | TT | 1985 |
| C | 1934 | R | 1960 | UU | 1986 |
| D | 1935 | S | 1961 | WW | 1987 |
| E | 1936 | T | 1962 | XX | 1988 |
| F | 1937 | U | 1963 | YY | 1989 |
| G | 1938 | W | 1964 | ZZ | 1990 |
| H | 1939 | X | 1965 | AA | 1991 |
| I | 1940 | Y | 1966 | BB | 1992 |
| J | 1941 | Z | 1967 | CC | 1993 |
| K | 1942 | AA | 1968 | DD | 1994 |
| L | 1943 | BB | 1969 | EE | 1995 |
| M | 1944 | CC | 1970 | FF | 1996 |
| N | 1945 | DD | 1971 | GG | 1997 |
| O | 1946 | EE | 1972 | HH | 1998 |
| P | 1947 | FF | 1973 | II | 1999 |
| Q | 1948 | GG | 1974 | JJ | 2000 |
| R | 1949 | HH | 1975 | ||
| S | 1950 | II | 1976 | ||
| T | 1951 | JJ | 1977 | ||
| U | 1952 | KK | 1978 | ||
| V | 1953 | LL | 1979 | ||
| W | 1954 | MM | 1980 | ||
| X | 1955 | NN | 1981 |
Example: If your barrel code is “KA,” the “K” indicates May, and the “A” indicates 1932 or 1958. To determine the correct year, consider the features of your shotgun. Wingmasters produced in 1932 would have different characteristics than those made in 1958.
Examining Other Features and Markings
In addition to serial numbers and barrel codes, other features and markings can provide clues about the age of your Remington 870 Wingmaster.
- Receiver Markings: Look for any proof marks or inspection stamps on the receiver. These markings can sometimes be researched to narrow down the production period.
- Stock and Forend: The style of the stock and forend can also be indicative of the age. Early Wingmasters had different stock designs and finishes compared to later models. Checkering patterns, wood type, and finish can all provide clues.
- Choke System: The type of choke system (fixed choke vs. RemChoke) can help determine the age. RemChoke interchangeable choke tubes were introduced in the mid-1980s. A fixed choke would indicate an older model.
- Vent Rib: The presence and style of a vent rib can also be a clue. Early models may not have had a vent rib, or the rib design may differ from later models.
- Magazine Cap: The style of the magazine cap can vary depending on the production period. Some older models had a different cap design compared to newer models.
The Remington 870 Wingmaster: A Legacy of Excellence
The Remington 870 Wingmaster is more than just a shotgun; it’s a symbol of American craftsmanship and a testament to enduring design. Its robust construction, smooth action, and versatility have made it a favorite among hunters, sport shooters, and law enforcement agencies for decades. Understanding the history and evolution of the Wingmaster can provide a deeper appreciation for its significance.
A Timeline of Key Features and Production Changes
The Remington 870 was first introduced in 1950, replacing the Model 31. The Wingmaster variant quickly gained popularity due to its enhanced features and refined finish. Over the years, the 870 Wingmaster has undergone several changes and improvements. Here’s a brief timeline of key milestones:
- 1950: The Remington 870 is introduced, with the Wingmaster as a premium variant. Early models featured a blued finish and walnut stock.
- 1950s-1960s: Gradual improvements are made to the design and manufacturing process. Different barrel lengths and gauges are introduced.
- 1970s: Synthetic stocks and forends become available as options.
- Mid-1980s: The RemChoke interchangeable choke system is introduced, adding to the versatility of the shotgun.
- Late 1990s-2000s: Various special edition and tactical models are released, catering to different shooting disciplines.
- 2020: Remington files for bankruptcy, leading to uncertainty about the future of the 870.
- 2020: Remington’s assets are sold, with the 870 production being taken over by RemArms.
This timeline provides a general overview of the 870 Wingmaster’s evolution. By comparing the features of your shotgun to this timeline, you can further refine your estimate of its age.
The Enduring Appeal of the Wingmaster
Despite changes in ownership and manufacturing processes, the Remington 870 Wingmaster remains a highly sought-after shotgun. Its classic design, reliable performance, and smooth action continue to appeal to shooters of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a recreational shooter, the Wingmaster offers a combination of quality, versatility, and value that is hard to beat. As of 2024, it remains one of the most popular pump-action shotguns ever made.
Dating Your Remington 870: A Practical Example
Let’s walk through a practical example of how to date a Remington 870 Wingmaster, combining the techniques discussed earlier.
Scenario: You have a Remington 870 Wingmaster with the following characteristics:
- Serial number: S123456
- Barrel code: LB
- Fixed choke
- Walnut stock and forend with checkering
Step 1: Analyze the Serial Number: The “S” prefix indicates a 12-gauge model. The serial number itself doesn’t provide a specific year, but it confirms that the shotgun was likely manufactured after 1950.
Step 2: Decode the Barrel Code: The barrel code “LB” indicates February (L) and 1933 or 1959 (B). Since the serial number suggests a post-1950 production, 1933 can be ruled out. Therefore, the barrel was likely manufactured in February 1959.
Step 3: Examine Other Features: The fixed choke and walnut stock are consistent with shotguns manufactured in the 1950s. The absence of RemChoke tubes further supports this dating.
Conclusion: Based on the serial number, barrel code, and other features, the Remington 870 Wingmaster was likely manufactured in February 1959. This example demonstrates how to combine different pieces of information to arrive at a more accurate estimate of the shotgun’s age.
The Value of Knowing Your Remington 870’s Age
Beyond satisfying curiosity, knowing the age of your Remington 870 Wingmaster can have practical implications, particularly regarding its value and collectibility. Older, well-maintained models, especially those with unique features or limited production runs, can be quite valuable to collectors. Understanding the nuances of different production periods can help you assess the worth of your firearm.
Assessing Collectibility and Market Value
Several factors influence the collectibility and market value of a Remington 870 Wingmaster:
- Condition: The overall condition of the shotgun is paramount. Models in excellent condition, with original finish and minimal wear, command higher prices.
- Originality: Original parts and features are highly valued. Modifications or aftermarket parts can detract from the value.
- Rarity: Limited edition or special production models are often more valuable than standard models.
- Gauge: Certain gauges, such as 16-gauge models, can be more collectible due to their relative scarcity.
- Provenance: If the shotgun has a documented history or association with a notable individual, it can significantly increase its value.
To accurately assess the market value of your Remington 870 Wingmaster, it’s recommended to consult with a reputable gun appraiser or research recent sales of similar models. Online auction sites and gun forums can provide valuable insights into current market trends.
Preserving Your Wingmaster’s Legacy
Whether your Remington 870 Wingmaster is a valuable collectible or a cherished family heirloom, proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving its legacy. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and safe storage can help ensure that your shotgun remains in good condition for generations to come.
The Ongoing Story of the Remington 870
Determining the age of your Remington 870 Wingmaster is just the beginning of understanding its story. This iconic shotgun has been a part of American shooting culture for over seven decades, and its legacy continues to evolve. By understanding the history, features, and value of your Wingmaster, you can fully appreciate its significance and ensure that it remains a treasured part of your collection for years to come. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time owner, the Remington 870 Wingmaster offers a unique blend of history, performance, and enduring appeal.
Expert Insights on Identifying Your Shotgun’s History
Identifying the age of your Remington 870 Wingmaster is a process that combines careful observation, research, and a bit of detective work. By using the methods described above, you can unlock the secrets of your shotgun’s past and gain a deeper appreciation for its place in history. Consider sharing your findings with other enthusiasts in online forums or at local gun clubs. Sharing knowledge helps preserve the legacy of this iconic firearm.
