The Remington Model 870 is a legendary shotgun, prized by hunters, law enforcement, and collectors alike. Its enduring popularity means millions of these shotguns are in circulation, each with a unique serial number that holds a wealth of information about its manufacturing history. Understanding how to research your Remington 870's serial number can unlock its past and potentially uncover valuable details. This guide will help you navigate the process of tracing your shotgun's history using its serial number.
Why Trace Your Remington 870's Serial Number?
There are several compelling reasons to trace the history of your Remington Model 870 using its serial number:
- Authentication and Verification: Confirming the authenticity of your shotgun is crucial, especially if you're buying or selling it. A serial number lookup can help verify its legitimacy and protect you from fraud.
- Manufacturing Date Determination: Pinpointing the year of manufacture helps establish its age and value. Collectors often place a high premium on older models.
- Historical Context: Knowing when and where your shotgun was produced provides a fascinating glimpse into its history and the evolution of the Remington 870.
- Troubleshooting Issues: In some cases, understanding the manufacturing date can assist in troubleshooting potential problems or sourcing replacement parts.
How to Look Up Your Remington Model 870 Serial Number
Unfortunately, Remington, now owned by Vista Outdoor, does not offer a public database for serial number lookups. This is a common practice among firearm manufacturers due to security and privacy concerns. Therefore, there's no official online resource to directly input your serial number and receive all the details instantly.
However, several alternative methods can help you determine the approximate manufacturing date of your Remington 870:
1. Utilizing Online Forums and Communities:
Engaging with online communities dedicated to firearms and Remington shotguns can be invaluable. Many experienced collectors and enthusiasts possess extensive knowledge of Remington 870 serial number ranges and their corresponding manufacturing dates. Posting your serial number (or a portion of it, to maintain privacy) in reputable forums may lead to assistance in determining its age. Remember to be cautious and only share information on trusted platforms.
2. Consulting Remington 870 Serial Number Charts:
Several websites and publications offer charts that correlate Remington 870 serial number prefixes or ranges with approximate manufacturing years. These charts are compiled from various sources and represent collective knowledge. While not foolproof, they offer a reasonable estimate of your shotgun's age. Remember that these charts are approximations and may not always be entirely accurate.
3. Contacting Remington Customer Service (Indirectly):
While Remington doesn't offer direct serial number lookups, contacting their customer service might indirectly yield some information. Explain you're researching the history of your shotgun and provide the serial number. While they might not give you the exact manufacturing date, they may provide general information or direct you to other resources.
Important Considerations
- Privacy: Be mindful of your privacy when sharing your serial number online. Only do so on trusted and reputable forums.
- Accuracy: Remember that any information obtained through unofficial sources, such as online forums or charts, is an approximation. It should not be considered definitive proof.
- Professional Appraisal: If you require a precise dating of your Remington 870, consider seeking a professional firearms appraiser. A qualified appraiser can provide a more accurate assessment based on a thorough examination of your shotgun.
This guide provides a comprehensive approach to tracing the history of your Remington Model 870. While a direct official lookup isn't available, utilizing the methods described above can help you uncover valuable information about your prized firearm. Remember to always prioritize responsible firearm handling and ownership.
