How To Tell The Age Of My Remington 1100: A Comprehensive Serial Number And Barrel Date Code Guide
Determining the production date of a Remington 1100 requires cross-referencing two distinct indicators: the receiver serial number, which provides an approximate manufacturing window, and the two- or three-letter barrel code stamped near the receiver on the left side of the barrel, which offers precise month and year identification. By applying the Black Powder X Code (BPXC) chart against the specific barrel markings, owners can pinpoint the exact origin of their shotgun within a single month of assembly.
Pre-Procedure Identification Requirements
Before attempting to date your Remington 1100, you must ensure you have the proper environment and tools to view small, often faint, stampings. The 1100, introduced in 1963, has undergone various manufacturing changes, but the barrel date code system remains the most accurate method for determining when the barrel—and likely the firearm itself—left the Ilion, New York, facility.
- Essential Equipment: A high-intensity LED flashlight for oblique lighting, a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe (5x or 10x), a soft microfiber cloth to remove surface oxidation or oil, and a notepad for recording alphanumeric sequences.
- Prerequisite Knowledge: You must distinguish between the barrel code (usually two letters) and the serial number (found on the receiver). Note that Remington often replaced barrels over the lifetime of the shotgun; therefore, the serial number represents the receiver's age, while the barrel code represents the age of the component currently installed.
- Estimated Duration: 5 to 10 minutes, assuming the markings are clear of heavy corrosion.
Step-by-Step Technical Identification Workflow
Step 1: Locating the Receiver Serial Number
The serial number is the primary identifier for your receiver. On most Remington 1100 models, the serial number is stamped on the left side of the receiver. If you have an older model, the serial number might be located on the bottom of the receiver, near the trigger guard.
- Wipe the receiver surface clean of debris using your cloth.
- Observe the alphanumeric sequence. Early models often lack a prefix, while later models feature a serial number followed by an "M," "N," or "V" suffix, indicating the gauge or the production run.
- If the serial number is absent or obscured by refinishing, rely exclusively on the barrel date code.
Step 2: Locating the Barrel Date Code
The Remington barrel code is a unique identifier consisting of two or three letters stamped on the left side of the barrel, immediately forward of the receiver.
- Rotate the barrel until the left side (as if you are shouldering the gun) faces a direct light source at an angle.
- Look for two letters (sometimes followed by a third, which denotes a specific year or feature) stamped horizontally.
Pro-Tip: If the stamp is filled with old grease or light surface rust, do not use steel wool. Instead, apply a thin layer of gun solvent and allow it to sit for three minutes before wiping gently with a nylon brush to reveal the letters without damaging the finish.
Step 3: Decoding the Barrel Markings
Once you have identified the letters, you must consult the Remington date code chart. The first letter represents the month of manufacture, and the second (or second and third) letter represents the year.
- Identify the Month Letter: Use the mnemonic "BLACKPOWDERX" (B=Jan, L=Feb, A=Mar, C=Apr, K=May, P=Jun, O=Jul, W=Aug, D=Sep, E=Oct, R=Nov, X=Dec).
- Identify the Year Letter: Cross-reference the second letter against the factory production list. For instance, the letter "M" typically denotes 1966 or 1992 depending on the era.
Warning: The Remington coding system was recycled over several decades. If your barrel code indicates a date, confirm the receiver configuration (e.g., presence of a magazine plug or barrel weight) to ensure you are selecting the correct decade.
Standardized Production Era Comparison Table
| Feature Set | Primary Identification Method | Reliability Level | Contextual Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Date Code | Two-letter code (Blackpowderx) | High (Monthly) | Barrels are easily interchangeable |
| Receiver Serial | Alphanumeric receiver stamp | Moderate (Yearly) | Records are incomplete pre-1967 |
| Proof Marks | Partial letter/mark near receiver | Low (Factory QC) | Used for internal testing tracking |
| Gauge Suffix | Suffix on serial (V=12ga, N=20ga) | Moderate (Classification) | Only indicates specific model series |
Common Identification Failures and Remediation
Despite the standardized nature of Remington markings, owners frequently encounter obstacles in the field.
- Faded or Buffed Markings: Often, previous owners have polished the receiver or re-blued the barrel, effectively erasing the stamps. In this case, identify the model generation by looking for the "1100" logo variation or the style of the scroll work on the receiver, which changed consistently throughout the late 1960s and 1980s.
- Non-Matching Components: If the serial number on the receiver suggests a 1964 production but the barrel code indicates 1988, the barrel is a later replacement. This is common in the 1100 series due to the popularity of interchangeable choke systems introduced in the late 1980s. Always prioritize the receiver serial number for the firearm's actual "born-on" date, treating the barrel as a component replacement.
- Corroded or Pit-Hidden Codes: On older waterfowl guns, heavy rust or pitting can obscure the date code. Use a jeweler’s loupe to inspect the area under a strong side-light. If the code remains illegible, the only reliable method for dating the receiver is to contact the Remington historical support archives with your specific serial number for a factory record search.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Remington 1100 serial number reflect the same date as the barrel code?
Not necessarily. While they were originally shipped together, the 1100 is modular. Many owners updated their shotguns with later barrels that featured RemChoke screw-in chokes, meaning the barrel is often newer than the receiver.
How do I distinguish between a 1966 and 1992 barrel code?
You must look at the barrel markings and finish. 1966 barrels were generally fixed-choke and featured deep, high-luster bluing. 1992 barrels usually featured the "RemChoke" system and a matte or standard satin finish.
Are there online databases for Remington serial numbers?
Several collector-driven databases exist, but they are often incomplete due to the fire at the Remington records department in the past. Always cross-reference multiple sources or consult a certified firearms appraiser if you require a formal valuation or insurance verification.
What if my barrel has no date code stamped on it?
If your barrel has no two-letter code, it is possible it is an aftermarket barrel or a very early prototype/custom shop piece. In rare instances, heavy bead-blasting during a professional refinish may have completely removed the stamp.
Does the "M" or "V" at the end of my serial number affect the date?
No, these letters indicate the gauge category or the specific production variant. They are structural identifiers for parts compatibility rather than date-specific indicators.
Preserve Your Sporting Heritage
Accurately dating your Remington 1100 is the first step in ensuring long-term maintenance and peak performance of this classic gas-operated shotgun. Keep a digital log of your shotgun’s confirmed production date alongside your maintenance records to ensure the continued value and safety of your firearm.
