Remington 11 48 Serial Number Lookup: How To Date And Identify Your Classic Shotgun

The Remington Model 11-48 holds a special place in the history of American firearms, marking a pivotal transition from the older, squared-off designs of the early 20th century to the streamlined aesthetics we recognize today. If you have recently inherited or purchased one of these recoil-operated semi-automatics, performing a remington 11 48 serial number lookup is the first step in understanding the legacy of your particular piece.

Knowing the exact production date of your shotgun does more than just satisfy curiosity. It helps in determining the value of the firearm, ensures you are ordering the correct replacement parts, and allows you to appreciate the specific era of manufacturing craftsmanship it represents. This guide will walk you through the nuances of identifying your Model 11-48 using both receiver serial numbers and the more reliable barrel date codes.

Where to Find the Serial Number on a Remington Model 11-48

The first hurdle many owners face is simply locating the identification marks. On the Remington 11-48, the primary serial number is typically stamped into the metal of the receiver. If you hold the shotgun in a standard firing position, look at the left side of the receiver, near the bottom edge where the metal meets the trigger guard or the magazine loading port.

While the receiver serial number is the official "identity" of the firearm for legal and registration purposes, it is often not the most efficient way to date the gun. Unlike some modern manufacturers that provide an instant online database, a remington 11 48 serial number lookup using only the receiver digits can be complex because Remington’s records from the mid-20th century were sometimes categorized by production blocks rather than a simple chronological sequence.

In addition to the receiver, you should always check the barrel for identification marks. On the left side of the barrel, near the receiver junction, you will find a series of small letter stamps. These are the Remington date codes, which are often the "secret key" used by collectors to determine the exact month and year the barrel was fitted to the firearm.

Understanding the Remington Date Code System (The BLACKPOWDERX Key)

To master the remington 11 48 serial number lookup, you must understand the internal coding system used by the factory. Since 1921, Remington has used a specific letter-coding system to denote the month and year of manufacture. For the Model 11-48, which was produced between 1949 and 1968, these codes are essential.

The month of manufacture is represented by a letter from the mnemonic "BLACKPOWDERX." Each letter corresponds to a month in sequence:

B – JanuaryL – FebruaryA – MarchC – AprilK – MayP – JuneO – JulyW – AugustD – SeptemberE – OctoberR – NovemberX – December

Following the month letter, there will be one or two letters representing the year of manufacture. For example, if you see the code "DU," the "D" indicates a September production, and the "U" corresponds to the Remington year code for 1950. Because the Model 11-48 was produced in a specific window (1949–1968), you only need to cross-reference the letters that fall within those two decades.

Decoding Remington 11 48 Serial Number Suffixes by Gauge

One of the most unique aspects of the Model 11-48 was its availability in a wide range of gauges, including 12, 16, 20, 28, and .410 bore. During a remington 11 48 serial number lookup, you will notice a letter suffix at the end of the numerical string on the receiver. This suffix is a direct indicator of the shotgun’s gauge.

L or No Suffix: Generally indicates a 12-gauge model.W: Specifically used for the 16-gauge models.X: Indicates a 20-gauge frame.Y: Denotes the 28-gauge variant.Z: Represents the .410 bore.

Identifying the gauge through the serial number is particularly helpful for collectors who encounter "parts guns" where a barrel may have been swapped. If the suffix on the receiver does not match the barrel currently installed, it suggests the firearm is not in its original factory configuration, which can significantly impact its market value.

The History and Evolution of the Remington Model 11-48

To truly appreciate what your remington 11 48 serial number lookup reveals, you must understand the context of its creation. Launched in 1949, the 11-48 was the successor to the legendary Model 11 (which was based on John Browning’s Auto-5 design).

The "48" in the name represents the year the design was finalized. It was a revolutionary step forward because it featured a streamlined, stamped steel receiver and a "hump-less" profile. It was the first of the "new generation" of Remington semi-autos that paved the way for the incredibly popular Model 1100.

Because the 11-48 was produced during the post-WWII industrial boom, the early models (1949-1953) often feature high-quality walnut and deep bluing that collectors highly prize. As production moved into the 1960s, minor changes were made to the internal components and finishes to streamline manufacturing costs. By using a remington 11 48 serial number lookup, you can determine if your shotgun belongs to that early "golden era" of post-war production.

Common Challenges with Identifying an 11-48 Shotgun

While the date code system is robust, there are several "red flags" to watch for when performing a remington 11 48 serial number lookup. The most common issue is the swapped barrel. Since Remington barrels are relatively easy to change, it is common to find a 1950 receiver paired with a 1962 barrel.

If the date code on the barrel suggests a year that does not align with the receiver’s serial range, the barrel was likely replaced at some point in the last 70 years. In these cases, the receiver serial number remains the definitive proof of the gun's "birth year," while the barrel code simply tells you when that specific barrel was made.

Another challenge is wear and tear. These shotguns were workhorses, often used in harsh hunting environments. It is not uncommon for the letter stamps on the barrel to be faint or partially obscured by light pitting or re-bluing. In such instances, using a magnifying glass and directional lighting can help reveal the original factory marks.

Why Knowing Your Remington 11-48 Production Year Matters

For many owners, the drive to complete a remington 11 48 serial number lookup is rooted in maintenance. The Model 11-48 is a long-recoil operated firearm, meaning the barrel moves backward during the firing cycle. This design requires specific friction rings and springs to function correctly.

Over the production run from 1949 to 1968, Remington made subtle adjustments to the friction piece designs and the weight of the recoil springs. If you are looking to restore a vintage 11-48 to its original firing condition, knowing the year of manufacture ensures you are sourcing "period-correct" internal parts.

Furthermore, from a collector’s standpoint, certain years and gauge combinations are much rarer than others. For example, the 28-gauge and .410 versions are highly sought after in the secondary market. Successfully identifying one of these through a remington 11 48 serial number lookup can confirm that you are holding a high-value piece of firearms history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Remington 11-48 Identification

Can I look up my serial number on the official Remington website?Currently, Remington does not offer a public-facing automated database for vintage models like the 11-48. Most owners rely on historical tables, collector forums, or direct inquiries to historical societies to complete a remington 11 48 serial number lookup.

What if my barrel has no letter codes?If there are no letter codes on the left side of the barrel, it may be an aftermarket barrel (such as those made by Hastings) or the marks may have been polished off during a heavy restoration or re-bluing process. In this case, you must rely solely on the receiver serial number.

Is the Model 11-48 the same as the Sportsman 48?They are very similar. The Sportsman 48 was a variation of the 11-48 that was limited to a 3-shot capacity to comply with certain hunting regulations of the time. The remington 11 48 serial number lookup process remains the same for both variations.

How to Stay Informed About Vintage Remington Values

The market for vintage Remington shotguns is constantly evolving. As more enthusiasts recognize the 11-48 as a "modern classic," values for well-maintained, early-production models continue to rise. Staying informed about serial number trends and production variations is the best way to protect your investment.

If you are interested in deepening your knowledge, consider joining historical firearm associations or subscribing to collector journals. These communities often have access to archived factory ledgers that can provide even more granular detail than a standard remington 11 48 serial number lookup.

Conclusion

Performing a remington 11 48 serial number lookup is a rewarding endeavor for any firearm enthusiast. By locating the receiver suffix and decoding the "BLACKPOWDERX" barrel marks, you unlock a wealth of information about your shotgun’s origins, from its gauge to the very month it rolled off the assembly line in Ilion, New York.

Whether you own a 12-gauge workhorse or a rare .410 collector's piece, understanding the date and history of your Remington 11-48 ensures that this classic piece of American engineering is preserved and appreciated for generations to come. Take the time to inspect your marks, consult the historical codes, and enjoy the story that your vintage Remington has to tell.