Finding the Hidden Signature: Locating the Serial Number
Common Location
The Remington 552 is a name synonymous with reliability and classic American craftsmanship. This iconic rimfire rifle, chambered in .22 caliber, has delighted generations of shooters and remains a popular choice for target practice, plinking, and small game hunting. Owning a Remington 552 isn’t just about possessing a firearm; it’s about holding a piece of history. And, like many vintage firearms, understanding its past adds another layer of appreciation. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to a vital aspect of owning this legendary rifle: the Remington 552 serial number lookup. We’ll delve into how to find the all-important serial number, interpret its meaning, and uncover the secrets held within your rifle’s unique identification.
The first step in your journey of discovery is to locate the serial number itself. This seemingly simple task is the gateway to unlocking the history of your Remington 552. The location of the serial number can be crucial, and over the years the location changed slightly.
The most common and primary location to find the serial number on a Remington 552 is on the receiver. The receiver is the main body of the rifle, housing the action. Specifically, you’ll usually find the serial number on the receiver’s left side. It’s often located near the ejection port, which is the opening where spent cartridge casings are expelled. Take a careful look along the side of the receiver, and with some patience, you should be able to spot the stamped markings.
The markings may be very small, and light may be necessary to make them out, as well as the surface can be worn down over the years, obscuring the serial number. Ensure that you have good lighting and carefully clean the area around the potential location with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris that might obscure the markings.
Other Possible Locations
In rarer circumstances, the serial number could potentially be found on other parts of the rifle. While less common, you might find it stamped on the barrel, particularly on older models. Closely examine the barrel for any signs of marking, paying attention to areas near the receiver and towards the muzzle. However, the receiver remains the primary location.
It’s important to note that Remington has used a few different serial number placements over the course of the 552’s production. Some models and years may have slightly different placements. The best course of action is to carefully examine all potential locations, consulting any available documentation or online resources if you’re unsure.
What to Do if the Serial Number is Missing or Illegible
What happens if the serial number is missing or seems illegible? This can present a challenge, but don’t despair. The first step is to carefully clean the area to improve visibility, as surface grime may obscure it. Should it still be impossible to make out, consider consulting a qualified gunsmith. A gunsmith possesses the expertise and tools to examine the firearm and potentially assist in identifying the serial number through specialized lighting or techniques. They might also be able to provide insights into why the serial number is missing or damaged.
The lack of, or alteration of, a serial number can sometimes impact the firearm’s legal status and value. It’s important to research and understand the relevant laws in your area regarding the possession of firearms and the implications of serial number issues.
The Evolution of Identification: Understanding Serial Numbering Systems
Serial number systems used by Remington evolved over time. Knowing the specifics of these changes is key to a successful Remington 552 serial number lookup. Before you attempt any lookup, it’s essential to understand the historical context behind these identification methods.
Pre-1968 Firearms
Many firearms manufactured before a specific year lacked serial numbers altogether. In the United States, this cutoff date is generally before the year nineteen sixty-eight. This means that if your Remington 552 was produced prior to this year, it might not have a serial number in the traditional sense. It is therefore particularly important to identify the model in this instance.
The model name and year, in the case of the Remington 552, can be usually be found on the barrel. This often consists of a two or three-letter code representing the month and year of manufacture. Identifying this code is the best way to date these firearms, instead of relying on a serial number.
Post-1968 Serial Numbers
Once federal law mandated serial numbers on firearms, Remington adopted a more standardized approach. This marked a significant shift, as each firearm was assigned a unique identifier. Understanding the formats used by Remington in this period is critical to performing the Remington 552 serial number lookup. The specifics often vary depending on the period of production. These serial numbers might incorporate prefixes, suffixes, or a combination of both, along with the numeric sequence. These could indicate the factory location, the type of firearm, or other internal tracking information. Familiarize yourself with any information available to properly decode the serial number.
Barrel Code Dating
Some of the most common information will be included in the barrel code, which will display the month and the year of manufacturing.
Unveiling the Secrets: Decoding Your Serial Number
Now it’s time to put your knowledge into action. Armed with your Remington 552 rifle, the next step is to decode the serial number and potentially determine its manufacturing date.
Gathering Information
The first step is to gather all necessary information. Have your rifle and the serial number readily available. Ensure you are clear about the exact serial number or any information on the barrel, so that you are not confused by the different markings that might appear on the rifle. Accuracy is paramount. A single error in the serial number will invalidate your search.
Using Online Resources and Charts
You should now consult any resources available to you online. Various websites, forums, and collector communities specialize in vintage firearms. The information, however, might not always be one hundred percent accurate, so cross-reference with other sources when possible.
Providing Examples
Another vital resource is the barrel code. Remington used a system where the barrel was stamped with a coded date representing the manufacturing year. These barrel codes can prove invaluable. Look closely at the barrel, usually near the receiver, for stamped markings.
Interpreting these barrel codes is typically quite straightforward. These charts use a system of letters to indicate the month and year of manufacture. For example, the letter “A” might represent the month of January, while “B” would indicate February, and so forth. The last letter and number in the code would generally indicate the year.
Here are some examples to illustrate this process:
Let’s say the barrel code shows “BK”. Looking at a typical Remington barrel code chart, we can break this down. “B” represents the month of February and “K” would represent the year nineteen-seventy-two.
Another example could be a code “LM”. “L” signifies the month of November and “M” the year nineteen-seventy-three.
As you can see, this system can quickly provide an approximate manufacture date.
Remember that the barrel date code provides an approximation, not an exact date. The rifle could have been manufactured in the last month of the previous year, or the first month of the next year, depending on when the barrel was installed.
More than Just a Number: Further Resources and Insights
The history of the Remington 552 is rich, with the rifle still being produced today, albeit in a different form. The 552 has a distinguished history, from its initial introduction to the present day. As you perform your Remington 552 serial number lookup, keep this lineage in mind.
Remington’s History
Numerous online resources can provide additional information. Gun forums, collector websites, and specialized firearms databases can offer in-depth insights into the Remington 552 and its production history. Sites dedicated to vintage firearms often have detailed information about serial number ranges, model variations, and production timelines.
Other Resources
If you’re looking to have your firearm appraised, or are still unsure, a professional is always recommended. They will be more familiar with the specifics of the firearm.
A Legacy to Cherish: Conclusion
Performing a Remington 552 serial number lookup is more than just a technical exercise. It’s an opportunity to connect with history and appreciate the craftsmanship that went into your rifle. By understanding the serial number, you can determine its approximate manufacturing date and learn more about your rifle. This allows you to appreciate its place in firearms history, or to learn about what makes your rifle unique.
We hope this guide empowers you to embark on your own journey of discovery. Enjoy the process, savor the information you uncover, and appreciate the rich legacy of your Remington 552.
