Remington Model 12 Rifle Serial Numbers: A Comprehensive Guide

The Remington Model 12 rifle is a iconic firearm known for its reliability and accuracy. When it comes to identifying the serial number of your Remington Model 12, it's essential to understand the Firearms Identification Code (FIC) system used by the manufacturer. In this article, we'll delve into the intricacies of the FIC code and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to decipher the serial number of your Remington Model 12 rifle.

The FIC code is a two or three-letter code located on the left side of the barrel, just ahead of the frame. The first letter of the code identifies the month of manufacture, while the remaining letters identify the year. For example, 'BL' would represent January 1920, and 'CWW' would represent April 1950.

It's crucial to note that when using the FIC code to date Remington shotguns, you should ensure that the barrel is original to the shotgun. This is because some Remington shotguns have interchangeable barrels, which can lead to confusion if not accounted for.

Remington rarely replaced barrels, making the FIC code a reliable method for identifying the month and year of manufacture. The company's confirmation of this information further solidifies its accuracy.

The years between 1943 and 1953 saw the use of double letters in the FIC code, such as 'MM' representing 1943. However, with knowledge of when the model was introduced, you can resolve the actual year of manufacture.

For Remington shotguns with removable barrels, the FIC code will be valid for the barrel's manufacture date, but not necessarily for the receiver. Barrels do get switched around, so it's essential to verify the originality of the barrel before dating the shotgun.

According to the 'Blue Book of Gun Values,' the FIC coding continues as follows: L-A-C-K-P-O-W-D-E-R-X-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12. The Remington Year of Manufacture Codes can be found on the barrel of your Remington rifle, located just forward of the receiver.

The first letter of the code represents the month of manufacture, followed by one or two letters that represent the year. With this information, you can accurately determine the manufacturing date of your Remington Model 12 rifle.

In conclusion, understanding the Firearms Identification Code (FIC) system used by Remington is essential for correctly identifying the serial number and date of manufacture of your Model 12 rifle. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you'll be able to decipher the FIC code and gain valuable insights into the history of your firearm.

Remington model 12 rifle serial numbers