Remington Wingmaster 870 12 Gauge Serial Numbers: A Guide to Dating Your Shotgun

When it comes to Remington shotguns, few models are as iconic as the Wingmaster 870 in 12 gauge. With its reputation for reliability and durability, it's no wonder that many shooters seek out these guns for their hunting and sport shooting needs. However, dating a Remington Wingmaster 870 12 gauge shotgun can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you're new to the world of firearms.

In this article, we'll explore the process of determining the serial number and date code of your Remington Wingmaster 870 12 gauge shotgun. We'll also provide some valuable tips on how to decode the barrel codes and understand the significance of these codes in relation to the shotgun's manufacturing history.

The Serial Number

One of the most important pieces of information you can get from your Remington Wingmaster 870 12 gauge shotgun is its serial number. This unique identifier is typically stamped on the receiver or the barrel, depending on the model year. The serial number can provide valuable information about the shotgun's production date, as well as any upgrades or modifications that may have been made to it over the years.

The Barrel Code

Another important piece of information you can get from your Remington Wingmaster 870 12 gauge shotgun is its barrel code. This code is typically stamped on the left side of the barrel near the frame and provides information about the year and month of manufacture. Here's a breakdown of what each letter in the barrel code corresponds to:

* L - January

* A - February

* C - March

* K - April

* P - May

* O - June

* W - July

* D - August

* E - September

* R - October

* X - November

* 2-12 - The numbers correspond to the year of manufacture

Using the barrel code, you can determine the exact date and time your Remington Wingmaster 870 12 gauge shotgun was manufactured. For example, if your barrel code reads 'L79xxxxV,' it would indicate that your shotgun was made in February 1979.

Tips for Decoding Your Barrel Code

When decoding your barrel code, there are a few things to keep in mind:

* Make sure the barrel is original to the gun before trusting the barrel code listing.

* Shotgun barrels are often interchanged at random, which means that using barrel codes alone may not be entirely reliable.

* Remington rifles are much more likely to have unchanged barrels, making it easier to date them accurately.

Dating your Remington Wingmaster 870 12 gauge shotgun can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right information and guidance, you can uncover valuable insights into your shotgun's history. By understanding what each letter in the barrel code corresponds to, as well as the significance of the serial number, you can gain a deeper appreciation for your shotgun and its place in the world of firearms.

Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting out, knowing how to date your Remington Wingmaster 870 12 gauge shotgun is an important part of maintaining and appreciating your firearm. With this guide, you'll be well on your way to uncovering the secrets of your shotgun's past and enjoying many years of reliable shooting performance.

Remington wingmaster 870 12 gauge serial numbers