Remington Model 11-48 Serial Number Lookup: A Collector’s Guide

The Remington Model 11-48 holds a significant place in the annals of firearms history. Introduced in 1949, it was the first post-World War II semi-automatic shotgun manufactured by Remington Arms. It was designed to succeed the iconic Model 11 and the Sportsman, offering a more streamlined, reliable, and modern take on the long-recoil operating system originally perfected by John Browning. For collectors, hunters, and heritage enthusiasts, determining the age of a specific unit through a serial number lookup is the first step in understanding its value and provenance.

Because Remington changed their serial numbering systems multiple times over the production life of the 11-48 (which ran until 1968), finding the exact date of manufacture requires more than just looking at a digital database. You must navigate a complex landscape of barrel codes, receiver serial numbers, and factory records. This guide provides the technical knowledge necessary to accurately identify your firearm.

Decoding the History and Production Timeline

The Remington Model 11-48 was revolutionary because it featured a receiver made from stamped steel parts, which significantly reduced manufacturing costs while maintaining high durability. When you begin your search for the age of your shotgun, it is vital to understand that the serial number on the receiver is often the primary, but not the only, indicator of the firearm’s lifecycle. The production spanned nearly two decades, during which manufacturing methods evolved, leading to variations in markings.

To start your investigation, you must first locate the serial number. On the Model 11-48, this is typically found on the left side of the receiver, near the bottom edge. While some early models might have serial numbers in unexpected locations due to factory shifts, the receiver location is standard. Keep in mind that serial numbers for this model were not necessarily sequential in the way modern manufacturers track firearms; Remington often utilized blocks of numbers that were not always perfectly chronological across different gauges (12, 16, 20, 28, and .410).

Beyond the receiver serial number, the most accurate way to date a Remington shotgun is by using the barrel code. Remington stamped a two- or three-letter code on the left side of the barrel, just forward of the receiver. This code corresponds to a specific month and year of manufacture. While the barrel and the receiver might have been manufactured at slightly different times, they are usually within a few months of each other. If your receiver serial number lookup provides a range of years, the barrel code will almost always narrow that down to a specific month.

How to Perform a Remington Model 11-48 Serial Number Lookup

If you are attempting to identify your firearm, you must look for the "Date Code" system. The Remington date code system is a standard feature on most Remington barrels. You can decode these by looking at the two letters stamped near the receiver. The first letter represents the month, and the second letter (or combination) represents the year.

Steps for accurate identification:

1. Safety First: Ensure the shotgun is unloaded. Open the action and visually inspect the chamber and magazine tube to confirm the firearm is safe to handle.
2. Find the Barrel Code: Locate the letters on the left side of the barrel, near the receiver. It will look something like "BK" or "LU."
3. Reference the Remington Code Table: Use established historical tables (like the Blackpowder101 or Remington society charts) to cross-reference the letters.
4. Inspect the Receiver: Compare the serial number on the receiver to known production ranges for the 11-48 (roughly 500,000 to 1,500,000 series, though these ranges vary by gauge).

It is important to note that many Model 11-48 shotguns have had their barrels replaced over the last 70 years. If the barrel code indicates a date that seems impossible for the receiver’s features (such as a 1965 barrel on an early 1949 receiver), it is highly likely that the shotgun has been serviced or "re-barreled" at some point in its life.

Comparison of Model 11-48 Gauges and Features

The Model 11-48 was unique because it was available in a wide variety of gauges, each with its own set of characteristics. The 28-gauge and .410 bore models are particularly sought after by collectors today due to their rarity and the "scaled-down" receivers that were designed specifically for those smaller shells.

The mechanical design of the 11-48 uses a long-recoil action. This means that after the shot is fired, the barrel and bolt travel backward together, locked, for the full length of the shell. This results in a distinctive "shucking" sound and a rhythmic recoil impulse that many traditional shooters prefer over modern gas-operated systems. Understanding these mechanical differences helps in identifying the specific version you possess, as early models had slight variations in the friction ring settings compared to later production runs.

Maintenance and Operational Considerations

Maintaining an 11-48 is straightforward, but it requires attention to the friction ring settings. The long-recoil system relies on a set of bronze and steel rings that control the speed of the barrel’s recoil. If these are configured incorrectly for the type of load you are shooting (e.g., heavy pheasant loads vs. light target loads), you risk damaging the wood stock or the receiver.

If you have acquired a vintage 11-48, take the time to disassemble the barrel and inspect the friction rings. Ensure they are clean and lightly oiled. One common issue with these older shotguns is the crystallization of old grease, which can cause the action to become sluggish or fail to cycle. A thorough cleaning using a high-quality solvent followed by a light application of modern gun oil will typically restore the shotgun to factory-level performance.

Clarification: The Remington 11-48 vs. The "Model 11"

There is often confusion between the Remington Model 11 and the Model 11-48. While they share the same fundamental "Browning Auto-5" heritage, they are entirely different in terms of internal components and receiver shape. The Model 11 is the licensed version of the Browning A5, featuring a square back receiver. The 11-48, by contrast, features a rounded, streamlined receiver profile which was Remington’s move toward a more aesthetic and cost-effective design.

If you are doing a serial number lookup and your receiver has a square back, you do not have a Model 11-48; you have a Model 11. The parts are generally not interchangeable between these two models. Ensuring you have the correct manual for the specific model is critical for safety. The Model 11-48 is often considered the "evolutionary link" between the traditional humpback autos and the later Remington 1100, which ushered in the era of gas-operated shotguns.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the serial number on my Model 11-48 the same as a Model 11? No. They use different serial number sequences entirely. You must consult specific charts for the 11-48 series.

2. Where can I find the official Remington factory records? Unfortunately, Remington Arms faced significant corporate changes, and many original factory ledgers were lost or remain unavailable to the public. Most dating is done via collector-compiled databases.

3. Does the serial number affect the value of the gun? Generally, no. Unless the serial number is a very low number (e.g., under 1,000) or indicates a rare gauge like the 28-gauge or .410, most 11-48s are valued based on condition, original finish, and mechanical integrity rather than the specific digits of the serial.

4. What should I do if my serial number is unreadable? If the serial number is worn off or obscured by rust, you can often still date the firearm using the barrel code mentioned earlier. If the barrel is also not original, the firearm’s exact manufacture date may remain an estimate.

5. Can I use modern steel shot in my 11-48? It is generally recommended to use lead or non-toxic bismuth/tungsten alternatives. Because these older barrels were choked for lead, using steel shot can cause "ring bulging" in the thin-walled barrels of the 11-48.

Unlock the History of Your Firearm

Owning a Remington Model 11-48 is a testament to your appreciation for classic American engineering. Whether you are using it for light upland bird hunting or keeping it as a piece of displayable heritage, knowing the true age of your shotgun adds a layer of depth to your ownership. If you need professional appraisal or a specific parts recommendation, contact a local gunsmith who specializes in vintage long-recoil systems to ensure your piece remains in top shooting condition for years to come.