The Remington 870 pump-action shotgun boasts a rich history, making pinpointing the exact manufacturing date of a specific firearm a quest for many collectors and enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will delve into the Remington 870's production timeline, helping you understand how to potentially date your own firearm. We'll cover key production periods, identifying marks, and resources available to assist in your search.
The Remington 870's Production History: A Timeline
The Remington 870's journey began in 1950, marking its first year of production. Since then, it's enjoyed an incredibly long and successful run, cementing its place as a legendary shotgun. Over the decades, Remington has produced millions of 870s, leading to subtle variations in design and markings across different production years. Therefore, simply knowing the year of manufacture isn't always enough for precise dating; often, more specific information is needed.
While a complete, year-by-year production breakdown is unavailable publicly, we can highlight key periods:
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1950s - 1960s: This era saw the establishment of the 870's basic design and features. Early models are highly sought after by collectors. Identifying markings from this period can be crucial for accurate dating.
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1970s - 1980s: Remington continued refining the 870 design, introducing various configurations and barrel lengths to cater to a wider range of users, from hunters to law enforcement.
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1990s - 2000s: The 870 saw continued production with incremental improvements and modifications. During this period, variations in stock materials and finishes became more pronounced.
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2010s - Present: Production continues, though the Remington brand has undergone significant changes in ownership, impacting production and availability.
Identifying Marks and Dating Your Remington 870
Pinpointing the exact manufacturing date of your Remington 870 often requires examining several markings on the firearm itself:
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Serial Number: This is the most crucial piece of information. Remington's serial number system is complex and not consistently publicized, making direct year-to-serial number correlation difficult without specialist resources.
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Roll Marks: These markings, stamped into the metal, often indicate the year of manufacture or the specific manufacturing plant.
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Receiver Markings: Examine the receiver for any additional markings or stamps that might provide clues.
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Proof Marks: These are markings indicating the firearm has passed safety and quality tests. While not directly tied to the manufacturing year, they can help verify authenticity.
Resources for Dating Your Remington 870
Unfortunately, a definitive online database linking serial numbers to precise manufacturing dates doesn't currently exist. However, these resources can assist in your research:
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Remington's Customer Service: While they may not provide exact dates, contacting Remington's customer service might provide some clues based on serial number information.
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Online Forums and Communities: Connecting with experienced Remington 870 enthusiasts and collectors online can be invaluable. Many forums dedicate themselves to firearms, offering a wealth of knowledge and assistance.
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Gunsmiths and Appraisers: A qualified gunsmith or firearms appraiser can provide a professional assessment and may be able to offer a closer estimate of the manufacturing year.
Conclusion
Determining the precise year a Remington 870 was made requires careful investigation of its markings and potentially accessing specialized resources. While a precise date might remain elusive, this guide provides a strong foundation for your research, equipping you with the knowledge and avenues to uncover more information about your specific firearm. Remember, always handle firearms responsibly and safely.
