Remington Model 11-48 Serial Number Lookup: A Comprehensive Guide To Dating Your Shotgun

The Remington Model 11-48 holds a significant place in American firearms history. As the first post-World War II shotgun introduced by Remington, it marked a technological transition from the heavy, long-recoil designs of the early 20th century toward a more streamlined, reliable autoloader. For collectors, hunters, and enthusiasts, understanding the production date of a specific firearm is paramount. Knowing how to perform a Remington Model 11-48 serial number lookup allows you to determine the provenance, value, and specific manufacturing era of your piece.

Unlike modern firearms that follow a standardized ISO or simplified alphanumeric serial system, Remington’s historical serial numbers were often part of a broader, more complex tracking system. This article serves as your definitive guide to identifying when your Remington 11-48 left the factory in Ilion, New York.

Understanding the Remington Model 11-48 Production Era

The Remington Model 11-48 was produced between 1949 and 1968. It was designed as an evolution of the Model 11 (a licensed version of the Browning Auto-5), featuring a redesigned receiver and a lighter, more ergonomic stock. Because production spanned two decades of rapid manufacturing changes, Remington utilized various coding systems to keep track of their output.

During the late 1940s and through the 1950s, serial numbers were generally stamped on the receiver or the barrel assembly. However, these serial numbers are often insufficient on their own to pinpoint a specific month or year of manufacture. This is where the secondary "barrel code" system becomes essential. Remington used a two- or three-letter code stamped on the left side of the barrel, just forward of the receiver, to track the exact month and year the barrel was finished.

While serial numbers track the firearm as a complete unit, collectors should always cross-reference the serial number with the barrel date code. If your barrel code indicates a date drastically different from the serial number's implied era, it is highly likely that the shotgun has been re-barreled at some point during its service life, which can impact its collector value.

How to Locate and Interpret Your Serial Number and Barrel Codes

To begin your Remington Model 11-48 serial number lookup, you must first clear the firearm and ensure it is safe to handle. Disassemble the barrel from the receiver if necessary to gain a clear view of the markings. The serial number is typically found on the bottom or side of the receiver. Once you have documented the serial number, flip the barrel over and inspect the left side, roughly an inch forward of where the barrel meets the receiver.

The barrel code consists of a letter representing the month and one or two letters representing the year. For example, a code like "PK" might indicate a specific manufacturing window. Translating these letters requires a reference chart, as Remington’s codes do not follow a simple alphabetic sequence. These codes were stamped by hand, meaning they can sometimes be faint, worn, or partially obscured by cold blue finish or surface rust.

When checking these numbers, keep in mind that Remington did not always keep perfect records for every single firearm. Due to the company's size and the volume of production during the post-war boom, there are occasional gaps or overlaps in the serial number ranges. If your serial number falls within a transitional year, rely on the barrel code as your primary source of truth, as it is generally considered the most reliable indicator of the shotgun's age.

Comparative Analysis: Identifying Value and Rarity

Determining the value of a Model 11-48 is not solely dependent on the year of manufacture. While "first year of production" (1949) models often command a slight premium, the physical condition and mechanical integrity remain the primary drivers of market price.

Market Comparison Table

The table above illustrates how the serial number range influences the market category. Early production models, particularly those featuring specific factory features or limited-run receiver engraving, are significantly more desirable than standard late-production models. However, even a standard 11-48 is a robust, reliable hunting tool, and many enthusiasts prefer these for their balance and smooth action compared to modern, plastic-heavy alternatives.

Pros and Cons of the Remington 11-48

As a classic firearm, the Model 11-48 presents a unique set of advantages and challenges for the modern user.

Pros

• Reliability: The long-recoil system is remarkably durable when kept clean and properly lubricated.
• Ergonomics: It features a slimmer grip and receiver profile that feels more akin to a fine double-barrel shotgun than a bulky autoloader.
• Heritage: Owning an 11-48 is akin to owning a piece of mid-century industrial art.

Cons

• Recoil Sensitivity: Because it uses a long-recoil system, the barrel moves back during the cycle. This can feel different from modern gas-operated shotguns.
• Ammunition Compatibility: These shotguns were designed for the pressures of the late 1940s and 50s; they may require specific ammunition types to cycle reliably without damaging the receiver or friction rings.
• Parts Availability: While many parts are interchangeable with other Remington designs, specialized components for the 11-48 are becoming harder to source, often requiring a professional gunsmith for repairs.

FAQ: Common Questions Regarding the Model 11-48

1. Does a low serial number increase the value of my 11-48? Generally, yes. Firearms produced in the first year of production (1949) are sought after by collectors, provided the condition is high.

2. Where can I find the official Remington records for my serial number? Remington’s historical archives are not always accessible online. Many enthusiasts rely on established enthusiast forums and the official Remington website’s "Barrel Code" lookup tool to cross-reference data.

3. Is it safe to shoot modern shells in a vintage 11-48? You should exercise caution. Avoid heavy-load or magnum shells, as these can put excessive stress on the receiver. Stick to standard 2-3/4 inch shells and ensure your friction ring setting is correctly adjusted for the load you are using.

4. What if my serial number is obscured by rust? Do not use abrasive tools to remove rust, as you risk destroying the serial number permanently. Use a mild oil and a nylon brush; if the number is still unreadable, a professional restorer may be able to safely reveal the characters without damage.

5. How does the 11-48 differ from the Model 11? The 11-48 has a much more modern, streamlined receiver and improved internal components, making it lighter and significantly more ergonomic than the original Model 11 design.

Maintenance and Conservation

To preserve the value of your firearm, store it in a temperature-controlled environment. The blued steel of the 11-48 is prone to oxidation if exposed to humidity. Regularly check the friction rings inside the forearm; they are the "heart" of the long-recoil system. If these rings are set incorrectly, the shotgun will suffer from excessive recoil or fail to eject spent shells. Ensure they are configured for the specific shell length and power you intend to shoot.

Whether you are looking to sell, insure, or simply learn more about your family heirloom, the Remington Model 11-48 is a masterpiece of American engineering. Take the time to properly identify your firearm, maintain its finish, and respect the history it represents. If you have confirmed the date and history of your firearm, consider documenting it in a logbook along with the serial number and any associated documentation to ensure that its history is preserved for future generations.

Ready to unlock the secrets of your shotgun? Start by inspecting your receiver and barrel markings today to get an accurate manufacturing date and maintain your piece of history for years to come.