The Remington 700 is a legendary bolt-action rifle, renowned for its accuracy and reliability. Owning one often sparks curiosity about its history – when it was manufactured, its specific model variations, and even potential recall information. This guide will walk you through the process of researching your Remington 700's serial number and what information you might uncover.
Understanding Remington 700 Serial Numbers
Remington 700 serial numbers aren't publicly searchable databases like some other firearm manufacturers. There's no central online repository where you can simply input a number and receive all the details. The information is primarily held by Remington (now part of Freedom Group) and potentially within various archives and private collections.
However, several avenues can help you piece together your rifle's history:
1. Contacting Remington Directly (or their Parent Company)
This is often the most reliable method, though it might require some persistence. Contacting Freedom Group, Remington's parent company, or their customer service department might yield the most comprehensive information. Be prepared to provide detailed information about your rifle, including the serial number, model variations, and any identifying marks.
While they might not disclose every detail, they could provide information on the year of manufacture, the model variant, and possibly even details related to any recalls or modifications associated with that specific serial number range.
2. Utilizing Online Forums and Communities
Engaging with online forums dedicated to firearms, particularly those focused on Remington 700 rifles, can be incredibly helpful. Experienced enthusiasts often share their knowledge and resources regarding serial number decoding or specific model identification. These communities may possess unofficial databases or collective knowledge built over years of discussion and research.
Remember to be cautious and verify information obtained from unofficial sources.
3. Consulting with Gunsmiths and Firearms Experts
Local gunsmiths or firearms appraisers may have access to resources or databases not available to the public. Their expertise can also help you interpret any markings or codes beyond the serial number itself. This is particularly useful if you have a unique or less common variant of the Remington 700.
4. Researching Remington 700 Production History
Understanding Remington's production history can help you narrow down the manufacturing year. While specific dates for individual serial numbers are rarely publicly available, research into the general production timelines for different model variants of the Remington 700 can provide an estimated timeframe. This requires research using online resources, books dedicated to firearms history, and perhaps even contacting firearms historians.
What Information Can You Potentially Find?
Successfully tracing your Remington 700's serial number might provide information such as:
- Year of Manufacture: This is often the primary goal of a serial number lookup.
- Model Variant: Determining the precise model (e.g., 700 ADL, 700 BDL, 700 SPS) helps you understand its features and specifications.
- Recall Information: If your rifle falls within a recalled serial number range, this is crucial safety information.
- Original Configuration: Understanding the original specifications can be helpful for restoration or modifications.
Important Considerations
- Privacy: Be mindful of sharing your serial number online; prioritize secure communication channels.
- Accuracy: Not all information found online is accurate, so cross-reference your findings.
- Patience: Tracing a Remington 700's history may require time and effort.
By combining these methods and exercising caution, you can significantly improve your chances of uncovering valuable information about your Remington 700 rifle's history. Remember that persistence is key in this endeavor.
