The Remington Model 11-48, a classic semi-automatic shotgun, holds a special place in the hearts of many firearm enthusiasts. Understanding its serial numbers is crucial for collectors seeking to authenticate their shotguns, determine their age, and appreciate their historical context. This guide delves into the intricacies of Remington 11-48 serial numbers, providing insights into their structure and what information they reveal.
The Evolution of Remington 11-48 Serial Numbering
Remington's serial number system for the Model 11-48 wasn't static. It evolved over the years of production, reflecting changes in manufacturing processes and company practices. This means there's no single, universally applicable method for dating every 11-48 based solely on its serial number. However, certain patterns and ranges can help narrow down the production year.
Early Production Serial Numbers:
Early Remington 11-48 shotguns typically possess serial numbers that are relatively low, often comprised of fewer digits. Pinpointing the exact manufacturing date for these early guns requires cross-referencing with factory records, which can be challenging but rewarding for dedicated collectors. Unfortunately, these records are not publicly accessible.
Mid-to-Late Production Serial Numbers:
As production ramped up, the serial numbers became longer, often incorporating a letter prefix or suffix to the numerical sequence. These additions can provide more refined clues about the manufacturing date and even the specific production run. However, the exact meaning of these prefixes and suffixes is often not readily available and usually requires detailed research within collector communities.
Beyond the Serial Number: Additional Identification Clues
While the serial number provides a valuable piece of the puzzle, it's not the sole means of identifying a Remington Model 11-48 and determining its age. Several other factors contribute to accurate identification:
Proof Marks:
Look closely for proof marks on the barrel and receiver. These marks often indicate the date and location of testing, adding to the historical context. Understanding these markings requires familiarity with firearms regulations and testing practices of the time.
Variations in Features and Markings:
Remington made subtle changes to the 11-48's design throughout its production run. Minor variations in the stock, forend, receiver markings, and other components can offer clues about the manufacturing date. Experienced collectors can identify these variations, comparing them against known production timelines and photographs of examples from different eras.
Condition and Wear:
The overall condition of the shotgun provides an additional layer of information. Excessive wear, specific types of corrosion, and the style of the finish can all suggest an approximate age range, and might reveal details about the gun's history and use.
Resources for Remington 11-48 Serial Number Research:
Unfortunately, a comprehensive, publicly available database correlating Remington 11-48 serial numbers to precise manufacturing dates doesn't exist. However, valuable resources can aid your research:
- Gun forums and online communities: Engage with dedicated firearm collectors and enthusiasts. Their collective knowledge and experience can be invaluable.
- Auction listings and sales records: Examining historical auction listings and sales records for comparable Remington 11-48 shotguns can offer clues about serial number ranges and their approximate ages.
- Books and publications on Remington firearms: Specialized books on Remington shotguns often contain information about production dates and serial number ranges.
Conclusion: A Journey of Discovery
Dating a Remington Model 11-48 requires meticulous research and attention to detail. While a precise date isn't always possible based solely on the serial number, combining the serial number information with other identifying features and historical context yields valuable insight into the shotgun's history and its place within the larger story of Remington firearms. The process itself is a rewarding journey for collectors who appreciate the rich history and craftsmanship of these classic shotguns.
