The Remington 870 Wingmaster, a legendary shotgun revered for its reliability and versatility, boasts a rich history reflected in its serial numbers. Understanding your Wingmaster's serial number can unlock a wealth of information, from its manufacturing date to its potential value. This guide will delve into the intricacies of Remington 870 serial number decoding, helping you uncover the story behind your firearm.
Understanding Remington 870 Serial Numbering Systems
Remington's serial numbering system for the 870 Wingmaster has evolved over the decades. There's no single, universal key; the system changed throughout the years. This makes precise dating difficult without access to comprehensive Remington records (which are not publicly accessible). However, we can still glean valuable insights.
Key Factors Influencing Serial Number Interpretation:
- Manufacturing Year: The most sought-after information is usually the year of manufacture. Unfortunately, Remington doesn't provide a publicly available database to directly translate serial numbers to dates.
- Variations in Numbering: The format and structure of the serial numbers changed over time, making a consistent decoding system impossible. Early serial numbers might differ significantly from those produced more recently.
- Model Variations: The serial number itself doesn't always specify the exact model (e.g., Wingmaster, Express, Police Magnum). Other markings on the firearm are crucial for precise identification.
Methods for Dating Your Remington 870 Wingmaster
While a precise date is often elusive, several strategies can help you narrow down the manufacturing year of your Remington 870 Wingmaster:
1. Utilizing Online Resources and Forums:
Numerous online forums and communities dedicated to firearms enthusiasts exist. Posting a clear picture of your firearm's serial number (obscuring any personally identifying information) on these platforms can often yield valuable assistance from experienced collectors and firearm experts who can offer educated guesses based on the number's format and style.
2. Examining the Gun's Markings:
Besides the serial number, other markings on your Remington 870 Wingmaster provide contextual clues. Look for the following:
- Proof Marks: These marks indicate the firearm's testing and compliance with safety standards.
- Model and Gauge Designations: These clearly identify the specific model and the gauge (e.g., 12 gauge, 20 gauge).
- Manufacturer's Markings: This confirms the manufacturer is indeed Remington.
3. Consulting with Gunsmiths and Appraisers:
Experienced gunsmiths and firearms appraisers often possess extensive knowledge about firearms and their serial number systems. Consulting a professional can be a valuable option, although it may involve a fee for their assessment.
Beyond the Date: What Else Can Your Serial Number Tell You?
While pinpointing the exact manufacturing date can be challenging, the serial number offers more than just a production year. It acts as a unique identifier for your firearm, crucial for:
- Authenticity Verification: Helps determine if your firearm is genuine or a counterfeit.
- Tracing Ownership: In case of loss or theft, your serial number plays a vital role in tracing the firearm's ownership and recovery.
- Valuation: Along with the firearm's condition and model, the age (inferred from the serial number) influences its overall value.
Conclusion: The Value of Persistence
Determining the exact manufacturing date of your Remington 870 Wingmaster using only the serial number can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. By utilizing a combination of online resources, careful examination of markings, and potentially professional consultation, you can uncover valuable insights into the history and value of your classic shotgun. Remember always to handle firearms responsibly and safely.
