Comprehensive Remington Model 11 48 Serial Number Lookup Guide For 2026
The Remington Model 11-48 holds a fascinating position in firearms history as one of the earliest post-World War II semi-automatic shotguns utilizing a long recoil-operated design. For collectors, gunsmiths, and estate heirs navigating a Remington Model 11 48 serial number lookup in 2026, accurately dating these firearms relies heavily on understanding historical factory stamping practices, barrel codes, and receiver markings. Because Remington utilized fluctuating serial number sequences and production overlaps, identifying the exact year of manufacture requires cross-referencing multiple data points on the shotgun.
Historical Evolution and Design Context of the Remington Model 11-48
Introduced in 1948, the Remington Model 11-48 was designed to replace the aging Model 11, which was a licensed Browning Auto-5 clone. The 11-48 featured a streamlined, hydrodynamic receiver stamped from modern sheet steel and machined components, marking a significant manufacturing shift in post-war sporting arms.
Understanding the evolutionary lineage helps contextualize why serial number tracking can occasionally be complex. The following table compares the Remington Model 11-48 with its direct predecessor and successor to highlight structural and manufacturing differences.
| Firearm Model | Production Years | Operating Mechanism | Receiver Construction | Typical Serial Number Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Remington Model 11 | 1905 - 1947 | Long Recoil (Browning Design) | Machined Forged Steel | Left side of receiver, bottom of frame |
| Remington Model 11-48 | 1948 - 1968 | Long Recoil (Redesigned) | Stamped and Machined Steel | Left side of receiver, forward of trigger guard |
| Remington Model 58 | 1956 - 1963 | Gas-Operated | Machined Steel | Bottom of receiver |
Step-by-Step Remington Model 11 48 Serial Number Lookup Procedure
Performing an accurate serial number lookup on a Remington Model 11-48 requires physical inspection of the firearm. Unlike modern firearms that feature standardized alphanumeric serialization mandated by modern federal regulations, mid-century Remington shotguns utilized sequential blocks that frequently reset or incorporated letter prefixes.
Locating the Serial Number
- Examine the Left Side: Inspect the left side of the receiver, typically located just forward of the trigger assembly or near the lower rear edge of the receiver wall.
- Check the Barrel Assembly: Look closely at the left side of the barrel just forward of the receiver ring for matching serial digits or factory assembly stamps.
- Inspect Internal Components: On certain early production models, check the internal magazine tube track or the rear of the bolt slide for matching manufacturing numbers.
Deciphering the Letter Prefixes and Date Codes
Remington stamped barrel date codes on the left side of the barrel near the receiver, consisting of a two- or three-letter combination. The first letter designates the month, and the subsequent letter or letters designate the year of manufacture.
Important Verification Tip: Always cross-reference the barrel date code with the receiver serial number range. Because barrels on shotguns were frequently swapped over decades of use, the barrel date code indicates when the barrel was made, while the receiver serial number indicates when the complete firearm was assembled.
Remington Model 11-48 Production Years and Serial Number Blocks
While Remington's factory records from this era can occasionally be incomplete due to mid-century corporate archiving gaps, historical collector data outlines reliable serial number tiers for the Model 11-48 across its twenty-year production run.
- 1948 (Introduction Year): Serial numbers typically begin around 1000000 and progress through early 102xxxx blocks.
- 1950 - 1952: Production numbers expand through the 105xxxx to 120xxxx ranges, incorporating various gauge indicators (12, 16, 20, 28, and .410 bore).
- 1955 - 1958: Serial numbers commonly fall within the 5000000 to 5200000 blocks, reflecting updated Remington tracking formats.
- 1960 - 1968 (Final Years): Late-production models extend into higher numerical blocks and frequently feature suffix letters designating specific configurations or factory modifications.
Barrel Code Reference Guide for Post-War Shotguns
If your serial number search yields ambiguous results, the barrel code remains the most definitive tool for dating the upper assembly. The coding system utilizes specific letters to represent manufacturing years from the post-war era through the end of production.
- W: 1950
- X: 1951
- Y: 1952
- Z: 1953
- A: 1954
- B: 1955
- C: 1956
- D: 1957
- E: 1958
- F: 1959
- G: 1960
- H: 1961
- J: 1962
- K: 1963
- L: 1964
- M: 1965
- N: 1966
- P: 1967
- S: 1968
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, and Friction Ring Adjustments
Beyond dating the firearm through a serial number lookup, owners must understand the operational mechanics of the Model 11-48. Because it uses a long-recoil system, proper setup of the friction rings and steel brake friction piece on the magazine tube is critical for reliable cycling and to prevent damage to the wooden forend.
- Heavy Loads (High Brass / Magnum Equivalent): Position the tapered friction ring with the bevel facing downward toward the receiver, with the bronze friction piece placed on top to increase braking friction during heavy recoil strokes.
- Light Loads (Target / Low Brass): Reconfigure the friction ring with the bevel facing upward toward the muzzle, placing the bronze friction piece below or removing supplemental braking friction to allow the barrel to cycle freely under lighter powder charges.
- Lubrication Protocols: Apply a light coating of high-grade gun oil to the magazine tube. Avoid heavy greases that attract unburnt powder residue and slow down the reciprocating recoil cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the serial number located on a Remington Model 11-48?
The serial number on a Remington Model 11-48 is stamped directly onto the left side of the receiver, usually positioned just forward of the trigger guard or near the lower edge of the frame. Inspecting this area under direct lighting is necessary, as decades of bluing wear or refinishing can obscure the digits.
Can I find the exact manufacturing date using only the serial number?
Exact day-and-month manufacturing dates cannot always be pulled solely from the serial number because Remington used block numbering systems spanning multiple calendar months. For precise dating, collectors must cross-reference the serial number range with the two-letter barrel code stamped on the left side of the barrel.
Did barrel swapping affect the accuracy of serial number lookups?
Yes, because barrels were easily removable and frequently replaced or swapped by owners or gunsmiths over the decades, a barrel date code may not match the production year of the receiver. The receiver serial number remains the legal and primary identifier for the firearm's manufacturing era.
What gauges were manufactured for the Remington Model 11-48?
The Remington Model 11-48 was produced in 12 gauge, 16 gauge, 20 gauge, 28 gauge, and .410 bore. The 28-gauge and .410-bore variants are built on scaled-down, lightweight receiver frames that are highly sought after by vintage shotgun collectors today.
How do I maintain the friction rings on a Model 11-48?
Proper friction ring setup depends entirely on the ammunition payload you intend to shoot, requiring the tapered ring to be reversed or repositioned on the magazine tube. Failing to adjust the friction rings correctly can result in violent barrel slamming that cracks the wooden forend.
Are replacement parts still available for the Remington Model 11-48?
While Remington discontinued factory production of Model 11-48 parts decades ago, specialized vintage firearm parts suppliers and secondary online marketplaces continue to offer functional internal components, springs, and replacement stocks. Consulting specialized gunsmiths familiar with post-war long-recoil actions ensures safe restoration and continued field use.
