The Remington Speedmaster 552 is a classic pump-action shotgun, prized by many for its reliability and affordability. Pinpointing the exact age of your Speedmaster 552 can be a rewarding process, primarily achieved through deciphering its serial number. While Remington doesn't publicly release comprehensive serial number databases, several methods can help you estimate its manufacturing year. This guide will explore those methods and answer common questions surrounding Remington Speedmaster 552 serial number dating.
How to Find the Serial Number on Your Remington Speedmaster 552
Before we dive into dating, you need to locate the serial number. It's typically found on the receiver, usually on the left or right side, depending on the model year. It's often stamped and may appear slightly faded with age. Clean the area gently to improve visibility if necessary. Take a clear picture for reference.
Dating Your Remington Speedmaster 552 Based on the Serial Number
Unfortunately, there's no publicly accessible online database that directly translates Remington Speedmaster 552 serial numbers into manufacturing dates. This makes precise dating challenging. However, you can use several strategies:
Using Remington's Customer Service
Your best bet is to contact Remington's customer service directly. While they might not offer an exact date, they could potentially provide a general timeframe based on your serial number. Be prepared to provide the complete and accurate serial number, and be patient as this process might take some time.
Connecting with Remington Collectors and Enthusiasts
Online forums and communities dedicated to Remington firearms, particularly those focused on shotguns, can be valuable resources. Experienced collectors often possess knowledge regarding serial number ranges and approximate manufacturing years. Sharing your serial number within these groups (while being mindful of sharing personal information) might yield valuable insights.
Utilizing Third-Party Resources
Several online resources specialize in firearm dating, although their accuracy can vary. While none are likely to provide a pinpoint date for a Remington Speedmaster 552, they might offer an educated estimate based on similar models and serial number patterns. Use these resources with caution and cross-reference information whenever possible.
What if I can't find the serial number?
If you're unable to locate the serial number, dating your Remington Speedmaster 552 becomes significantly more difficult. You'll need to rely on visual inspection and comparisons with known models from specific years. This approach is less precise and can only provide a broad estimate. Consider examining the overall condition of the firearm, its features, and any markings that might indicate its age.
What are the common features of a Remington Speedmaster 552?
The Remington Speedmaster 552 is known for specific features that, while not directly dating it, can help narrow down the era. These features include the type of wood used in the stock, the finish on the metal components, and the style of the markings. Comparing these to known features of models produced in various years could give a very rough estimate.
Are there any other ways to estimate the age?
Besides serial numbers and visual inspection, consider any documentation accompanying the shotgun, such as original sales receipts or owner's manuals. These papers provide undeniable proof of ownership and potential clues about its age.
Conclusion
Dating a Remington Speedmaster 552 with certainty based solely on its serial number remains challenging without direct access to Remington's internal records. This guide offers various avenues to explore, however, increasing the chances of successfully estimating the age of your firearm. Remember to approach online resources with a critical eye, cross-reference information, and prioritize contacting Remington's customer service or firearm enthusiast communities for the most reliable results.
