Remington model 12 serial numbers by year

Identifying a vintage rifle can be both exciting and frustrating, especially when faced with cryptic markings that don't seem to match any commonly available reference materials. If you're trying to date your Remington Model 12C Pump .22 rifle based on its serial number, but are encountering difficulties due to unusual or missing information, you're not alone.

The first step is always to consult official sources and trusted firearms forums for guidance. However, when these resources fail to provide clear answers, it may be time to seek the expertise of a professional gunsmith or appraiser who specializes in antique arms.

In your case, there are several factors that could contribute to the confusion:

1. The rifle's serial number is only five digits long (*41). This suggests that it was manufactured before 1927, when Remington began using standard six-digit serial numbers starting with a 'Model' followed by two letters and four or five additional figures.

2. There are no visible markings for the U.S. Model designation ('12C') on your rifle's receiver or barrel. Additionally, you mentioned that there is no logo marking from either Remington Arms Company (RAC) nor Union Metallic Cartridge Co., which acquired RAC in 1927 and continued using the Remington name.

3. The date codes found on your rifle don't match any of those listed in standard reference tables for this model year range. Instead, you see two letters ('S' over 'H') followed by some other characters that aren't easily legible from just a brief description. These markings could potentially indicate foreign manufacture or post-World War I/II production.

4. Finally, the presence of a Pedersens patent date ('JanuOther Patents Pending') on your rifle's barrel suggests possible importation into the United States after World War I (1918), although further research would be necessary to confirm this hypothesis accurately without closer inspection and expert analysis.

If none of these theories seem applicable or you're still unsure about how best to proceed with dating your Remington Model 12C Pump .22 rifle, consider reaching out directly to reputable firearms dealerships that specialize in vintage collectible arms for their professional opinion. They may be able to offer valuable insights based on years of experience working with similar models and serial numbers.

In conclusion, identifying a classic firearm like this one can indeed prove challenging due to the many variations within any given model year range combined with potential damage or wear & tear over time which could affect legibility. Patience is key; don't give up until you find someone who knows their stuff when it comes down to these kinds of rare collectibles!

Remington model 12 serial numbers by year