This unique identifier, stamped on the receiver of each firearm, serves as a permanent record linking the rifle to its manufacturing date and specific configuration. Like a fingerprint, it distinguishes each Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster from all others. Locating and recording this number is the first step in researching the history of a specific rifle.
Knowing this information allows owners to verify the authenticity of their firearm, establish its approximate production date, and potentially uncover details about its past. This is crucial for collectors seeking to establish provenance and value. Further, it aids in identifying correct parts for repairs or restoration, ensuring the rifle remains true to its original design and preserving its historical integrity. In some cases, this identifier can even assist in tracing the ownership history of a particular firearm.
The following sections will delve deeper into locating the identifier on the rifle, interpreting its meaning, and utilizing online resources and historical records for further research. Understanding this key piece of information unlocks a wealth of knowledge about the Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster, enhancing appreciation for this classic American firearm.
1. Location
Locating the serial number on a Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster is crucial for identification and historical research. Its placement is consistent across most production years, simplifying the process for owners. Understanding where to find this key piece of information is the first step in unlocking the rifle’s history.
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Receiver
The serial number is stamped on the left side of the receiver. This location is protected from wear and tear, ensuring the number remains legible over time. The receiver is the core component of the firearm, making it a logical and secure place for this important identifier.
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Specific Placement
More specifically, the number is typically found forward of the loading port, near the receiver’s front edge. This precise placement helps distinguish it from other markings that might be present on the receiver, such as model designations or patent information.
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Variations
While the general location remains consistent, slight variations may exist depending on the production year or specific model. Early production models may have the number located slightly differently. Consulting reference materials or online forums dedicated to the Model 81 can provide further clarification for specific variations.
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Accessibility
The serial number is generally readily accessible without disassembly. Simply locating the left side of the receiver, forward of the loading port, should reveal the stamped number. However, accumulated dirt or debris may require careful cleaning for proper visibility.
Accurate identification of the serial number’s location is essential for any research related to the Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster. This information allows owners to proceed with confidence in verifying the firearm’s authenticity, researching its production date, and exploring its potential history.
2. Format
The format of a Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster serial number provides crucial insights into its production timeframe. Understanding this structure allows for accurate dating and authentication, differentiating between various production periods and potential variations. This structured approach enables a more precise historical placement of the firearm.
Early Model 81s, manufactured before World War II, typically feature a simple numeric serial number sequence. These numbers generally ascend chronologically, providing a straightforward method for estimating the production year. For example, lower numbers indicate earlier production, while higher numbers suggest later manufacture within the pre-war period. Post-World War II production introduced variations, often incorporating letters into the serial number sequence. This shift reflects changes in manufacturing processes and record-keeping practices. One example includes the addition of a letter prefix or suffix, adding another layer of detail to the dating process. Recognizing these distinctions is critical for accurate historical assessment.
Variations in format can also indicate specific model variations or factory locations. Researching these nuances provides a deeper understanding of the rifle’s history and specifications. Consulting dedicated resources, such as online forums or collector guides, can provide further clarification on specific format variations and their corresponding significance. Ultimately, understanding the format of the Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster serial number allows for a more precise and informed analysis of the firearm, connecting its physical characteristics to its historical context.
3. Dating
Establishing the production date of a Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster relies heavily on its serial number. Accurate dating provides crucial context for understanding the rifle’s historical placement, potential variations in features, and overall significance within the broader context of firearms history. This process requires careful consideration of available resources and an understanding of Remington’s manufacturing practices.
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Pre-War Production
Model 81s manufactured before World War II generally follow a relatively straightforward numeric sequence. Lower numbers correspond to earlier production dates, while higher numbers indicate later manufacture within this period. Reference materials and online databases dedicated to Remington firearms often provide serial number ranges and their corresponding production years, enabling a reasonable estimation for pre-war models.
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Post-War Production
The post-World War II era introduced changes to Remington’s serial number system, often incorporating letters and potentially resetting numerical sequences. This added complexity requires more specific resources and a deeper understanding of the variations in format. Consulting specialized guides or expert collectors is often necessary for precise dating of post-war Model 81s.
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Factory Records
While not always readily available, original factory records represent the most definitive source for dating a Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster. These records, if accessible, can provide precise manufacturing dates and potentially reveal details about the rifle’s original configuration and shipment. Archival research or contacting Remington directly may be required to access these records.
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Expert Consultation
For particularly challenging cases or when dealing with unusual serial number formats, consulting with experienced collectors or firearms historians can prove invaluable. Their expertise can help navigate the complexities of Remington’s serial number system and provide a more accurate assessment of the rifle’s production date based on a combination of factors, including the serial number, observed features, and historical context.
Successfully dating a Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster enhances appreciation for its historical significance and provides a foundation for further research. Understanding the complexities of the serial number system and utilizing available resources allows for a more accurate placement of the firearm within its historical context, contributing to a deeper understanding of this classic American rifle.
4. Variations
Variations in Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster serial numbers reflect the evolution of the rifle’s production across its lifespan. These variations can manifest in different formats, specific characters used, or changes in numbering sequences. Understanding these nuances provides valuable insight for collectors and researchers, allowing for more precise identification and historical placement of individual firearms within the broader Model 81 lineage. Recognizing these distinctions is critical for accurate assessment and authentication.
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Pre-War Simplification
Early Model 81s, manufactured before World War II, often employed a simpler numeric serial number sequence. This straightforward approach reflects the manufacturing practices of the time. These serial numbers generally ascend chronologically, offering a relatively simple method for estimating the production year. For instance, a lower number suggests an earlier production date compared to a higher number within the pre-war range.
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Post-War Complexity
Post-World War II production introduced complexities into the serial number system. The inclusion of letters, changes in sequencing, and potential resets reflect evolving manufacturing processes and record-keeping practices. A specific example includes adding letter prefixes or suffixes, introducing an additional layer of detail required for accurate dating. Decoding these variations is crucial for correctly placing a post-war Model 81 within its production timeframe.
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Special Runs and Limited Editions
Certain Model 81s produced in special runs or limited editions may exhibit unique serial number characteristics. These variations might include distinct prefixes, suffixes, or entirely separate numbering sequences. Such distinctions serve to identify these specific models, often reflecting unique features, finishes, or commemorative purposes. Recognizing these special serial number patterns adds another layer of understanding to the rifle’s history and value.
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Factory and Production Changes
Serial number variations can sometimes indicate shifts in factory location or significant changes in production methods. These variations, though subtle, can offer clues about the rifle’s manufacturing history. Researching these nuances provides a more detailed understanding of the Model 81s evolution. Consulting specialized resources, like collector guides or online forums, allows for deeper exploration of these variations and their connection to specific production periods or manufacturing facilities.
Analyzing these variations within the serial numbers offers a more granular understanding of the Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster’s production history. This detailed examination allows collectors and researchers to distinguish specific production periods, identify unique models, and gain a deeper appreciation for the rifle’s evolution across its lifespan. Understanding these subtleties adds a significant dimension to the process of authenticating and historically contextualizing individual firearms.
5. Significance
The serial number etched onto a Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster possesses significant weight beyond mere identification. It serves as a crucial link to the rifle’s past, unlocking a wealth of information vital to collectors, historians, and owners alike. This seemingly simple sequence of characters acts as a key to understanding the rifle’s unique history, authenticity, and potential value.
Establishing provenance, a documented history of ownership, hinges significantly on the serial number. This documented lineage is crucial for verifying a firearm’s authenticity and can dramatically influence its value. A Model 81 passed down through generations, with its ownership history traceable through the serial number, carries more than just monetary value; it embodies a tangible connection to the past. Similarly, a documented serial number allows collectors to confidently identify rare variations or limited edition models, distinctions that can significantly impact a rifle’s collectibility and market price. For example, a Model 81 with a serial number confirming its inclusion in a specific military contract or special production run gains added historical significance and value.
Beyond establishing provenance, the serial number aids in proper restoration and maintenance. Identifying the correct period-specific parts relies heavily on knowing the rifle’s manufacturing date, readily ascertainable through the serial number. Using incorrect parts compromises historical accuracy and can negatively impact the firearm’s value. Furthermore, the serial number provides a point of reference for law enforcement in cases of theft or recovery, contributing to responsible firearm ownership and aiding in the return of stolen property. In essence, the serial number of a Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster functions as its historical fingerprint, enabling accurate identification, authentication, and responsible stewardship of this classic American firearm.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster serial numbers, providing clear and concise answers to facilitate understanding and assist in research.
Question 1: Where is the serial number located on a Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster?
The serial number is stamped on the left side of the receiver, typically forward of the loading port.
Question 2: How can one determine the manufacturing date of a Model 81 using its serial number?
Utilizing online resources, collector guides, or contacting Remington directly can help link serial numbers to specific manufacturing dates. Pre-war models typically follow a straightforward numerical sequence, while post-war models may involve letters and variations.
Question 3: What significance does the serial number hold beyond identification?
The serial number is crucial for establishing provenance, verifying authenticity, identifying specific variations or limited editions, and ensuring the use of correct parts during restoration. It also aids law enforcement in cases of theft or recovery.
Question 4: Are there variations in serial number formats for the Model 81?
Yes, variations exist, particularly between pre-war and post-war models. Pre-war serial numbers are generally numeric, while post-war numbers often incorporate letters. Special runs or limited editions may also have unique serial number characteristics.
Question 5: What should one do if the serial number is illegible or obscured?
Careful cleaning may improve visibility. If the number remains unreadable, consulting a qualified gunsmith or contacting Remington may be necessary. Attempting to alter or enhance the number is strongly discouraged.
Question 6: Where can one find reliable resources for interpreting Remington Model 81 serial numbers?
Dedicated online forums, collector guides, and Remington historical societies offer valuable resources for interpreting serial numbers. These resources often provide detailed information on serial number ranges, formats, and associated production dates.
Understanding the Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster serial number provides essential information about the rifle’s history and authenticity. Careful examination and research, utilizing available resources, allows owners and collectors to appreciate the unique story behind each firearm.
The subsequent section will provide practical guidance on researching your Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster’s history using its serial number.
Researching Your Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster
Effective research using the firearm’s unique identifier requires a systematic approach. The following tips offer guidance for navigating available resources and maximizing research efforts.
Tip 1: Record the Number Accurately
Precise documentation is paramount. Carefully transcribe the alphanumeric sequence, noting any unusual characters or markings. A clear, accurate record prevents errors during subsequent research stages. Photographing the marking ensures a readily available visual reference.
Tip 2: Consult Online Databases
Numerous online resources specialize in firearm information. These databases often contain serial number records linked to manufacturing dates or specific model variations. Cross-referencing the recorded number against these databases provides initial insights into the rifle’s production timeframe and potential historical context. Prioritize reputable and well-established sources for accurate information.
Tip 3: Explore Collector Guides and Forums
Collector guides and online forums dedicated to Remington firearms often contain detailed information on serial number variations and dating. Engaging with experienced collectors in these communities can yield valuable insights and assist in interpreting complex serial number formats. These platforms foster a collective knowledge base that benefits individual research endeavors.
Tip 4: Contact Remington Directly
While not always guaranteed, contacting Remington directly may provide access to factory records. These records offer the most definitive information regarding the rifle’s manufacturing date, original configuration, and potentially even its initial shipment details. Persistence and a clearly formulated inquiry increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Tip 5: Consider Professional Appraisal
For rare or historically significant Model 81s, a professional appraisal provides an expert assessment of the firearm’s value and authenticity. Appraisers possess specialized knowledge in identifying specific variations and interpreting serial numbers within a broader historical context. This professional evaluation adds an extra layer of validation to research findings.
Tip 6: Preserve Historical Documentation
Any discovered documentation related to the rifle’s history, such as original purchase receipts, ownership records, or historical photographs, should be carefully preserved. These documents enhance the provenance and add to the overall historical narrative associated with the firearm. Proper storage protects these valuable artifacts for future generations.
Successfully researching a Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster provides a richer understanding of the rifle’s history and significance. Utilizing available resources and employing a systematic approach maximizes the potential for uncovering valuable insights into the firearm’s past.
The following conclusion summarizes the key takeaways regarding the Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster and its unique identifier.
Final Thoughts on Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster Serial Numbers
The Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster serial number serves as more than a simple identifier; it acts as a portal to the rifle’s unique history. From verifying authenticity and establishing provenance to aiding in restoration and informing potential value, understanding this key piece of information is crucial for collectors, owners, and anyone seeking a deeper appreciation of this classic firearm. The exploration of serial number formats, variations, and their connection to specific production periods provides a framework for accurately placing each Model 81 within its historical context. Utilizing available resources, such as online databases, collector guides, and even direct contact with Remington, empowers researchers to uncover the stories embedded within these unique identifiers. Furthermore, recognizing the significance of proper documentation and preservation ensures that the historical narrative associated with each firearm remains accessible for future generations.
Preserving the history of the Remington Model 81 Woodsmaster contributes to a broader understanding of American firearms heritage. Each serial number represents a tangible link to the past, connecting individual firearms to specific moments in time and enriching our appreciation for the craftsmanship and legacy of this iconic rifle. Continued research and responsible stewardship ensure that these historical narratives remain vibrant and accessible, fostering a deeper connection to the past and informing future generations of firearm enthusiasts.