The Remington 700, a legendary bolt-action rifle, boasts a rich history and a dedicated following. Understanding your Remington 700's serial number is crucial for several reasons, from verifying authenticity and determining the rifle's age to tracing its history and accessing relevant service information. This guide delves into the intricacies of Remington 700 serial numbers, helping you unlock the information they hold.
What Does a Remington 700 Serial Number Tell You?
A Remington 700 serial number isn't just a random string of characters; it's a coded message containing valuable information about your firearm. While Remington hasn't publicly released a complete, comprehensive decoding system, certain patterns and clues allow experienced firearm enthusiasts and collectors to decipher key details. These details commonly include:
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Year of Manufacture: This is often the most sought-after piece of information. By comparing the serial number to known manufacturing ranges (found through online forums and databases dedicated to Remington firearms), you can narrow down the year your rifle was produced. Note that these ranges are approximate and should be treated as estimates.
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Manufacturing Location: Remington rifles were produced at various facilities over the years. While not always directly evident from the serial number itself, the number can sometimes help narrow down the potential manufacturing plant.
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Model Variations: While the basic serial number format is consistent across most Remington 700s, subtle differences in the number structure may sometimes indicate specific model variations or features. However, this is less reliable than the year of manufacture determination.
Finding Your Remington 700 Serial Number
The serial number is usually located in several places on your Remington 700:
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Receiver: This is the most common location. Look for an engraved or stamped number on the receiver's surface, typically near the ejection port or tang.
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Barrel: In some cases, a partial serial number or other identifying markings might be found on the barrel.
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Documentation: If you have the original paperwork that came with your rifle, the serial number should be clearly listed there.
Deciphering the Code: Practical Tips and Resources
Unfortunately, there isn't a single, universally accepted key to unlocking every detail from a Remington 700 serial number. However, several strategies can aid in the process:
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Online Forums and Communities: Dedicated firearms forums and online communities (like those focused on Remington rifles) are invaluable resources. Experienced members often share their knowledge and insights, helping decipher serial numbers based on their patterns and ranges.
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Remington's Customer Service: While they might not provide a full breakdown of your rifle's history, Remington's customer service might be able to offer some assistance in verifying the serial number's authenticity and confirming that it's registered to a specific model.
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Third-Party Databases: Some specialized websites and databases focus on firearm serial numbers and manufacturing dates. These can be helpful resources, though it's crucial to use reputable sources to avoid misinformation.
Beyond the Serial Number: Other Identifying Marks
Remember, the serial number is just one piece of the puzzle. Other markings on your Remington 700 can contribute to its identification and history:
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Proof Marks: These markings indicate that the firearm has passed certain safety and quality tests.
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Model and Caliber Markings: These are clearly visible markings indicating the specific model and caliber of your rifle.
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Manufacturer's Markings: This often includes the Remington logo and other identifying symbols.
Important Note on Safety
Always handle firearms safely and responsibly. Never point a firearm at anything you don't intend to shoot, and always keep it unloaded unless actively preparing to shoot. If you're unsure about anything related to your firearm, seek guidance from a qualified gunsmith or firearms expert. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional firearm advice.
