Remington Model 11 48 Serial Number Lookup Guide For 2026
Navigating a Remington Model 11 48 serial number lookup requires understanding the specific manufacturing patterns, date codes, and metallurgical traits of one of Remington's most iconic post-World War II firearms. As collectors, restorers, and firearm enthusiasts evaluate these semi-automatic shotguns in 2026, accurate identification remains critical for safe usage, valuation, and maintenance. This guide provides the definitive methodology for dating your Remington Model 11-48, analyzing barrel codes, evaluating mechanical configurations, and understanding the historical context of this transitional long recoil operating system.
Historical Evolution and Technical Specifications of the Model 11-48
The Remington Model 11-48, introduced in 1948 and manufactured through 1968, represented a major manufacturing shift from the earlier John Browning-designed Model 11. While the Model 11 was a direct, heavy-receiver licensed clone of the Auto-5, the 11-48 modernized the platform by utilizing a streamlined, lightweight receiver formed from modern stamped and machined steel components. It bridged the gap between traditional long recoil operation and contemporary lightweight shotgun design.
Understanding the core technical profile of the shotgun helps contextualize serial number records, as variations in gauges and barrel lengths altered production schedules. The following specifications outline the standard production parameters for the Remington Model 11-48 across its operational lifespan:
- Action Type: Long Recoil Semi-Automatic (Browning-derived friction ring system)
- Calibers Produced: 12 gauge, 16 gauge, 20 gauge, 28 gauge, and .410 bore
- Receiver Material: Streamlined carbon steel (differing significantly from the squared-back Model 11)
- Standard Barrel Lengths: 26, 28, 30, and 32 inches depending on gauge and choke configuration
- Choke Options: Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder, and Skeet
- Magazine Capacity: 4-round tubular magazine (plugged to 3 rounds for hunting compliance)
- Production Years: 1948 to 1968 (Total production exceeding hundreds of thousands of units)
Step-by-Step Remington Model 11-48 Serial Number Identification Process
Unlike modern firearms that feature centralized digital databases, dating a vintage Remington shotgun requires cross-referencing stamped serial numbers located on the receiver with factory barrel date codes. Because Remington frequently used interchangeable parts and matched production lots, checking both locations guarantees the highest degree of dating accuracy.
Locating the Primary Serial Number: The main serial number on a Remington Model 11-48 is stamped on the left side or bottom of the receiver, usually situated near the lower front edge close to the trigger guard assembly. On some variants, you may need to remove the forearm wood to inspect the magazine tube or the lower frame rail for matching assembly numbers.
Follow this systematic workflow to decode your shotgun:
- Safety First: Ensure the firearm is completely unloaded by checking the chamber and the tubular magazine. Open the action and lock it to the rear before examining any metal surfaces.
- Locate the Receiver Serial Number: Clean away any accumulated grease, dirt, or surface oxidation using a non-marring cleaning solvent and a brass brush. Record the exact numerical sequence.
- Examine the Barrel Code: Look on the left side of the barrel, just forward of the receiver ring. You will find a two- or three-letter stamp indicating the exact month and year of barrel manufacture.
- Compare Receiver and Barrel Dates: Note that while original barrels generally match the receiver's production era, interchangeable barrels or factory repairs mean barrel codes can sometimes differ by a year or two.
- Reference Production Blocks: Consult established Remington archival production ledgers to match your receiver serial number range to the corresponding calendar year between 1948 and 1968.
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Decoding Remington Barrel Date Codes
In addition to receiver serial numbers, Remington utilized a distinct barrel stamp system consisting of letters representing the month and year of manufacture. If your Remington Model 11-48 retains its original factory barrel, this two-letter code offers a precise verification method alongside the receiver serial number lookup.
The year code letters are stamped in a specific sequence beginning with the introduction of the code system. For post-war firearms like the Model 11-48, the following key letters indicate the manufacturing year:
- W: 1950
- X: 1951
- Y: 1952
- Z: 1953
- A: 1954
- B: 1955
- C: 1956
- ED: 1957
- FD: 1958
- GD: 1959
- HM: 1960
- KW: 1961
- LW: 1962
- MM: 1963
- NW: 1964
- PP: 1965
- RS: 1966
- WW: 1967
- YW: 1968
The accompanying month letter is typically stamped first, followed by the year letter. For example, a barrel stamped with "XYZ" or a combination like "KWW" translates directly through Remington's internal manufacturing charts. If the stamp is worn, using a soft pencil rubbing or indirect lighting can reveal the recessed stamping clearly without damaging the bluing.
Model 11 vs. Model 11-48 vs. Sportsman 48 Comparison
Many owners confuse the Model 11-48 with its predecessor (Model 11) or its economy-grade variant (Sportsman 48). When performing historical research or purchasing replacement components, identifying the exact model variant is vital.
| Feature / Attribute | Remington Model 11 | Remington Model 11-48 | Remington Sportsman 48 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Production Era | 1905 – 1947 | 1948 – 1968 | 1949 – 1959 |
| Receiver Design | Square-back, heavy profile | Streamlined, lightweight contour | Streamlined, lightweight contour |
| Grade / Finish | Standard commercial grade | Standard commercial grade | Economy grade (plain wood, minor cosmetic differences) |
| Gauges Offered | 12, 16, and 20 gauge | 12, 16, 20, 28, and .410 bore | 12, 16, and 20 gauge |
| Serial Number Prefix | Often numeric only or unique prefixes | Varies by gauge block (e.g., 500,000+ ranges) | Often designated with specific production runs or suffixes |
Common Troubleshooting and Maintenance Realities for the Model 11-48
Operating a long recoil shotgun requires strict adherence to friction ring configurations. Unlike gas-operated shotguns, the Remington Model 11-48 relies on a bronze friction ring and a steel brake ring positioned around the magazine tube underneath the forearm.
- Heavy Load Setup: When shooting high-brass or heavy waterfowl loads, the tapered bevel of the bronze friction ring must face toward the muzzle, engaging the barrel bushing to slow down the violent rearward travel of the barrel.
- Light Load Setup: When shooting low-recoil target loads or light field loads, the bronze friction ring must be flipped so that the tapered bevel faces toward the receiver, allowing the barrel to cycle freely without short-stroking.
- Lubrication Requirements: The magazine tube must be kept lightly lubricated with a high-grade gun oil. Running the Model 11-48 dry accelerates wear on the friction brake and can crack the wooden forearm.
- Forearm Inspection: The thin wooden forearms on Model 11-48 shotguns are prone to cracking if the magazine cap is loose or if the friction settings are incorrect. Inspect the interior wood regularly for hairline fractures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Remington Model 11-48 Serial Numbers
How do I find the exact manufacturing year of my Remington Model 11-48?
You can find the manufacturing year by matching the receiver serial number against historical Remington production records or by reading the two-letter date code stamped on the left side of the barrel near the receiver. Cross-referencing both numbers ensures absolute verification.
Are Remington Model 11-48 serial numbers available in an online database?
There is no single official live lookup database hosted by Remington for vintage firearms. Instead, collectors rely on published ledger ranges found in authoritative reference texts like The Blue Book of Gun Values or specialized Remington historical association archives.
Can I fire modern steel shot through a vintage Remington Model 11-48?
Firing modern steel shot through older fixed-choke barrels—especially full or modified chokes—is strongly discouraged because steel does not compress like lead, which can cause barrel bulging or seam splitting. Use specialized non-toxic alternatives like bismuth or shoot low-pressure loads through open-choked barrels.
What should I do if my receiver serial number and barrel code conflict?
A conflict usually indicates that the barrel was replaced at some point during the shotgun's working life due to damage, change of choke preference, or gunsmith servicing. The receiver serial number remains the primary identifier for the firearm's original manufacture date.
Did the Remington Model 11-48 come in .410 bore?
Yes, the Model 11-48 was famously offered in .410 bore and 28 gauge on appropriately scaled, ultra-lightweight frames, making these specific gauges highly sought after by collectors in the modern secondary market.
Securing Your Firearm History
Performing an accurate serial number lookup on a Remington Model 11-48 preserves the history of a transitional American shotgun while ensuring safe, reliable mechanical operation for years to come. Whether you are cataloging a family heirloom or assessing a restoration project, always verify both the receiver markings and barrel date codes to establish true provenance. Inspect your friction ring settings, maintain proper lubrication on the magazine tube, and consult professional gunsmiths for any structural repairs to keep this mid-century classic functional on the range or in the field.
