Finding information about your Remington 1187 shotgun can be surprisingly tricky. Unlike some manufacturers, Remington doesn't offer a readily accessible online database for serial number lookups. This leaves many owners wondering about their firearm's age, manufacturing date, and even potential recalls. This guide will explore the methods you can use to trace your Remington 1187's history using its serial number.
Why Trace Your Remington 1187's Serial Number?
Knowing your Remington 1187's history offers several benefits:
- Verify Authenticity: A serial number lookup can help verify the shotgun is genuine and not a counterfeit. This is crucial for resale value and ensuring you own a legitimate firearm.
- Determine Manufacturing Date: Knowing the approximate manufacturing date can help you understand its age and condition. This information is valuable for assessing its worth and appropriate care.
- Check for Recalls: While rare, Remington has issued recalls for certain firearms in the past. Checking your serial number can help determine if your 1187 has been subject to any recall notices.
- Improve Resale Value: A documented history, even if it's just an estimated manufacturing date, can significantly impact your shotgun's resale value. Buyers often prefer firearms with traceable origins.
How to Find Your Remington 1187's Serial Number
Before you begin your search, you'll need to locate your shotgun's serial number. It's usually found in one of the following places:
- Receiver: This is the main body of the shotgun, typically on the bottom or side.
- Barrel: Some models might have the serial number engraved on the barrel itself.
- Original Documentation: If you still have the original paperwork that came with the shotgun, the serial number will be clearly listed.
The serial number itself is usually a combination of letters and numbers.
Methods for Tracing Your Remington 1187 Serial Number
Unfortunately, there's no official Remington database for a simple online lookup. However, several approaches can help you uncover information:
1. Contact Remington Directly (or its Successor): While they don't have a public database, contacting Remington's customer service (or the company that currently holds the Remington brand rights) might yield results. Be prepared to provide proof of ownership. This is often the most reliable method, though it may require patience.
2. Consult Firearms Forums and Communities: Online firearms forums and communities are a valuable resource. Experienced owners and collectors often share knowledge and techniques for dating firearms based on serial number ranges. Searching relevant forums with your serial number might uncover information from others who own similar models. Remember to be cautious and only share as much information as you feel comfortable with online.
3. Utilize Third-Party Resources: Some third-party websites claim to offer firearm serial number lookup services. However, exercise caution; verify their legitimacy and credibility before providing any personal or sensitive information. The reliability of these services varies significantly.
4. Examine the Shotgun's Markings: Closely examine your shotgun for other markings beyond the serial number. These markings could provide clues about the manufacturing date or specific features. Comparing these markings to online resources and photos of similar Remington 1187 models can sometimes help narrow down the manufacturing timeframe.
Important Considerations
- Privacy: Be mindful of sharing your serial number online. Only do so on trusted and reputable platforms.
- Accuracy: Information found online or through indirect means might not always be entirely accurate. Always cross-reference information from multiple sources.
- Patience: Tracing a firearm's history can be time-consuming. Be prepared to invest some effort in your research.
By combining these methods, you can significantly improve your chances of learning more about your Remington 1187's history. Remember to approach this process methodically and prioritize secure and reputable sources for information. Good luck with your search!
