Finding the date of manufacture for your Remington 700 rifle can be a fascinating journey into its history. Knowing the age of your firearm can be valuable for several reasons, including assessing its value, understanding its potential wear and tear, and even tracing its provenance. While Remington doesn't publicly release a comprehensive serial number database, several methods can help you determine the approximate manufacturing date of your Remington 700. This guide will explore these methods and provide you with the information you need.
Understanding Remington 700 Serial Numbers
Remington 700 rifles have been produced for decades, resulting in a complex system of serial numbers that changed over time. The serial number itself doesn't directly translate to a specific date. Instead, the number provides a clue, and additional research is often required. The serial number's format varies depending on the year of manufacture. Early Remington 700s might use a simpler numbering system than later models. Variations also exist based on the specific model (e.g., 700 ADL, 700 BDL, 700 SPS).
Identifying Your Remington 700 Model
Before you begin researching the manufacturing date, correctly identifying your specific Remington 700 model is crucial. This will help you narrow down the possible date ranges. The model name is usually stamped on the barrel or receiver. Common models include:
- Remington 700 ADL (Action Deluxe): A more basic model known for its simplicity and affordability.
- Remington 700 BDL (Bolt Deluxe): A slightly more feature-rich model than the ADL.
- Remington 700 SPS (Sportsman): A popular model with various features depending on the year.
- Remington 700 CDL (Custom Deluxe): A higher-end model with premium features.
- And many others...
Knowing your model allows for more focused research using online resources and potentially contacting Remington directly (though this is not always fruitful).
Methods for Determining the Remington 700 Manufacturing Date
Several approaches can help you estimate the manufacturing date:
1. Online Remington 700 Serial Number Databases
Several websites offer databases attempting to correlate Remington 700 serial numbers with manufacturing dates. However, these databases are often incomplete, unofficial, and may contain inaccuracies. Treat information from these sources with caution and verify it with other methods. Use these resources as starting points, not definitive answers.
- Caution: The accuracy of these databases varies greatly. Always cross-reference with other methods.
2. Remington Customer Service
Contacting Remington customer service directly might seem like a good idea, however, due to the sheer volume of firearms produced, obtaining a precise manufacturing date from them is often difficult or impossible. They might be able to provide some general information based on the serial number, but don't expect a pinpoint date.
3. Gun Forums and Collector Communities
Engaging with online gun forums and collector communities can be incredibly helpful. Experienced Remington 700 owners often share their knowledge and experiences, and some might even possess resources you can leverage. Posting pictures of your rifle's markings (including the serial number, model markings, and any other relevant markings) can greatly increase your chances of getting useful responses.
4. Examining the Rifle's Markings
Carefully inspect your Remington 700 for any additional markings that could provide clues about its age. This includes checking the barrel, receiver, and other components for any markings besides the serial number that might indicate a year or date of manufacture (though this is less common).
5. Using Serial Number Ranges and Production Estimates
Researchers have compiled estimated serial number ranges for various periods of Remington 700 production. While not precise, these ranges can provide a reasonable approximation of the manufacturing year. These ranges are often found in gun forums and collector publications. Keep in mind these are estimates and can vary depending on the source and model of 700.
Example (Illustrative only – actual ranges vary widely and are not consistently available):
| Approximate Year | Serial Number Range (Example only - NOT accurate) |
|---|---|
| 1960-1970 | 100000 - 500000 |
| 1970-1980 | 500001 - 1000000 |
| 1980-1990 | 1000001 - 1500000 |
(Remember: This table is purely illustrative and NOT accurate. Actual ranges vary and are not consistently available publicly.)
Importance of Accurate Dating
Knowing the approximate manufacturing date of your Remington 700 is important for several reasons:
- Assessing Value: Older or rarer models might command higher prices among collectors.
- Maintenance and Repair: Understanding the age helps determine potential wear and tear and necessary maintenance.
- Historical Significance: For some, knowing the history of their firearm adds to its appeal and significance.
Conclusion
Determining the exact date of manufacture for a Remington 700 rifle can be challenging, but by utilizing multiple methods, including online resources (used cautiously), community forums, and careful examination of the firearm itself, you can arrive at a reasonable estimate. Remember to approach this process with patience and a healthy dose of skepticism, cross-referencing information from different sources before drawing any conclusions.