How old is my Remington 1100?

How Old is My Remington 1100?

The Remington 1100 is a legendary semi-automatic shotgun that has been a favorite among hunters and shooters for decades. With its durable design, reliability, and accuracy, it’s no wonder why it remains a popular choice among many. But how old is your Remington 1100? In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Remington 1100, its production years, and how to determine the age of your specific model.

History of the Remington 1100

The Remington 1100 was first introduced in 1963 by Remington Arms Company, a legendary firearms manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1816. The 1100 was designed to be a more reliable and durable alternative to the traditional pump-action shotguns of the time. It was the first semi-automatic shotgun to use a gas-operated system, which eliminated the need for a recoil-operated mechanism.

The 1100 quickly gained popularity among hunters and competitive shooters, thanks to its ability to cycle a wide range of shells, including steel, lead, and magnum loads. Its reliability, accuracy, and durability made it a favorite among many, and it remained in production for over 30 years.

Production Years of the Remington 1100

The Remington 1100 was produced from 1963 to 1998, with a total of 1.2 million units manufactured during that time. Here’s a breakdown of the production years and some notable changes:

• 1963-1968: The original Remington 1100 was introduced in 1963 and remained largely unchanged until 1968.
• 1969-1975: The 1100 received a major overhaul in 1969, with improvements to the trigger group, magazine tube, and stock design.
• 1976-1985: The 1100 continued to evolve, with the introduction of new chamberings, such as the 20-gauge and.410 bore.
• 1986-1998: The 1100 underwent another major redesign in 1986, with improvements to the action, trigger group, and stock design.

Determining the Age of Your Remington 1100

So, how do you determine the age of your Remington 1100? Here are some steps to follow:

• Check the Serial Number: The serial number is located on the bottom of the receiver, near the magazine tube. Remington used a sequential serial number system, so you can look up the production date of your shotgun using the serial number.
• Check the Date Code: Many Remington 1100s have a date code stamped on the receiver, usually in the form of a letter and number (e.g., "B 12"). This code indicates the month and year of production.
• Check the Stock: The stock design and materials used can also give clues about the age of your Remington 1100. For example, earlier models had a more pronounced pistol grip, while later models had a more ergonomic design.
• Check the Chambering: The chambering of your Remington 1100 can also give clues about its age. Earlier models were chambered in 12-gauge only, while later models were available in 20-gauge and.410 bore.

Key Features to Look for

Here are some key features to look for when determining the age of your Remington 1100:

• Pistol Grip: Earlier models had a more pronounced pistol grip, while later models had a more ergonomic design.
• Trigger Group: The trigger group design changed over the years, with later models having a more refined trigger pull.
• Magazine Tube: The magazine tube design changed over the years, with later models having a more durable and reliable design.
• Stock Materials: The stock materials used changed over the years, with later models using more durable and ergonomic materials.

Table: Remington 1100 Production Years and Key Features

Conclusion

Determining the age of your Remington 1100 is a straightforward process that involves checking the serial number, date code, stock design, and chambering. By knowing the production years and key features of your shotgun, you can gain a better understanding of its history and value. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a collector, the Remington 1100 is a legendary shotgun that’s sure to remain a favorite among many for years to come.