The Remington 11-87 is a highly regarded semi-automatic shotgun, prized by hunters, sport shooters, and collectors alike. Knowing your 11-87's history can be valuable for several reasons, from verifying authenticity to understanding its potential value. Unfortunately, there isn't a centralized, publicly accessible database for Remington serial number lookups like some firearm manufacturers offer. This means finding information about your specific shotgun requires a different approach.
Why You Might Need a Remington 11-87 Serial Number Lookup
Several reasons might prompt you to search for information using your Remington 11-87's serial number:
- Authenticity Verification: Confirming your shotgun is a genuine Remington and not a counterfeit.
- Manufacturing Date Estimation: Determining the approximate year your shotgun was produced. While not exact, this can give you a general timeframe.
- Parts Sourcing: Identifying specific parts for repair or restoration can be easier if you know the age and model variations.
- Assessing Value: Understanding the age and condition of your 11-87 can help determine its market value.
How to Find Information About Your Remington 11-87
Since a direct online lookup isn't available, your search will involve a multi-pronged approach:
1. Examine the Shotgun Itself
Carefully inspect your Remington 11-87 for any markings beyond the serial number. The barrel, receiver, and other parts may have additional stamps or codes indicating the model variations, manufacturing date codes (often subtle), or other identifying information.
2. Leverage Online Forums and Communities
Dedicated firearms forums and online communities are excellent resources for Remington enthusiasts. Posting a clear image of your serial number (obscuring any personal information) and other identifying marks may yield helpful information from experienced collectors and owners who might recognize the markings or have access to relevant databases not publicly available.
Important Note: Always be mindful of sharing personal information online. When posting images of your firearm, be sure to obscure any personally identifiable data.
3. Contact Remington Directly (or its Successor)
While Remington no longer exists as an independent entity, contacting their successor or a Remington parts supplier might provide some assistance. They may have internal records or be able to point you towards resources that could help. This approach might require some persistence.
4. Consult with Firearms Appraisers or Experts
If you require precise information about your shotgun's history or value, consider consulting with a qualified firearms appraiser or expert. They may have access to specialized databases and resources unavailable to the public.
Understanding the Limitations
It's crucial to understand that obtaining precise manufacturing dates or complete historical records for older Remington 11-87 shotguns might be challenging. Record-keeping practices varied over the years, and access to those records may be restricted. The information you gather will likely provide a general timeframe and some identifying characteristics rather than complete manufacturing details.
Conclusion
While a simple Remington 11-87 serial number lookup tool doesn't exist, a combination of careful examination, online community engagement, and expert consultation can help you uncover valuable information about your shotgun's history. Remember to always handle firearms safely and responsibly.
