The Remington 572 Fieldmaster: A Legacy in .22
The rhythmic pump, the familiar heft, the satisfying report – for many, the Remington 572 Fieldmaster embodies the spirit of classic .22 rifles. Produced for decades, this pump-action marvel has graced the hands of countless shooters, plinkers, and hunters. But beyond its performance lies a fascinating history, etched not just in the metal and wood of its construction, but also in the intricate system of numbers that marks each rifle: the serial number. Understanding the secrets held within these serial numbers is key to unlocking the story of your Remington 572, revealing its age, its features, and its place within the broader Remington legacy.
Why Serial Numbers Matter: A Deep Dive
The serial number on a firearm isn’t merely an arbitrary sequence; it’s a vital piece of historical evidence. It’s the first clue in a detective story, allowing us to trace the lineage of each rifle, from its day of creation in a factory to its present existence. This number serves multiple critical functions.
Firstly, it’s essential for *identification*. In a world where firearms can be remarkably similar, a serial number provides a unique identifier, distinguishing one rifle from another. This is particularly important if a rifle is lost, stolen, or involved in an incident. It allows authorities to trace the firearm back to its owner or previous owners and ensure the legal ownership of a firearm.
Secondly, serial numbers are crucial for authenticating your Remington 572. With the increasing value of vintage firearms, unfortunately, come the attempts to create fraudulent replicas. Comparing your serial number against known records can provide a valuable layer of assurance. Any deviations from the accepted serial number formats or inconsistencies with known manufacturing timelines can raise red flags and potentially indicate an inauthentic firearm.
Thirdly, the serial number assists in understanding the *manufacturing timeline*. By correlating the number with known production dates and feature sets, we can place a specific rifle within a specific production period. This can reveal critical details about the rifle’s characteristics. This historical context adds value, helping determine not just the date of manufacture but also the types of materials or features.
Fourthly, the serial number is incredibly helpful for *assessment of value*. The manufacturing date influences the rifle’s desirability. A rifle in pristine condition from a specific production period can be more valuable than a similar rifle from a more common production run.
Delving into Remington’s Serial Numbering Practices
To appreciate the intricacies of the Remington 572’s serial number, we must first consider Remington’s approach to serializing its firearms throughout history. The company’s serial number practices have evolved significantly over time. It’s not a static system; it’s a system that changed as time passed, and as the company and technology evolved.
Early in its history, Remington didn’t consistently use serial numbers across its product lines. The concept of tracking individual firearms wasn’t fully adopted. The introduction of serial numbers happened gradually, and the format of those early numbers varied. It’s essential to know that the absence of a serial number on an older Remington 572 isn’t always an indicator of a problem; it may simply reflect the era of production.
As manufacturing processes modernized and government regulations tightened, Remington adopted a more standardized serial numbering system. This move also coincided with changes in production volume and models. The system grew complex as Remington produced a broader array of firearms. Each model, including the 572, underwent changes in the way its production was tracked, reflected in the evolution of serial number formats.
Understanding the Specifics: The 572 Fieldmaster
Now, let’s focus specifically on the Remington 572 Fieldmaster. The location, format, and components of the serial number are all important.
Where to Find the Serial Number
The primary location for the serial number on the Remington 572 is typically on the receiver. Examine the receiver’s left side or the bottom of the receiver, near the trigger. Sometimes, the serial number may also appear on the barrel, usually near the receiver. Examine the firearm carefully, using good lighting.
Unraveling the Serial Number’s Structure
The presence of serial numbers started to be widespread later. The format evolved. Early models might have simply used a basic numerical sequence, while later production guns implemented more complex schemes.
As production continued, the system gradually moved to a format that we would see in the later years of production. There were different patterns, especially the implementation of date codes, which would help pinpoint the specific year of production.
As you delve into understanding a Remington 572 serial number, you’ll encounter two critical elements: a letter, or combination of letters, indicating the month of manufacture, and another that represents the year.
Decoding the Pieces: Date Codes and Beyond
Unlocking the secrets within the serial number often involves deciphering Remington’s date code system.
- Month Codes: The letter code system is a convenient way to determine the month the firearm was produced. For instance, the letter “A” might represent January, “B” February, and so on. However, keep in mind that the specific letter-month correlations may vary depending on the year of production. It’s important to consult reliable references to make certain that you have the correct table for your specific model and production era.
- Year Codes: In addition to the month, the year code is crucial. A letter (or series of letters and numbers) will designate the year of manufacture.
- Specific Number Sequences: Often, the serial number contains a string of numbers. These numbers are used to uniquely identify a specific rifle.
Putting it All Together: Dating Your 572
Here is a process for dating your Remington 572.
- Locate the Serial Number: Confirm its location on the receiver or barrel.
- Identify the Date Code: Find the date code (usually a letter or group of letters) in the serial number.
- Consult the Charts: Look up the date code in the appropriate Remington reference chart or database to find the month and year of manufacture.
- Verify: Ensure that the serial number makes sense for the age and features of the rifle.
Features and Variations: Unveiling the Era
The manufacturing date provided by the serial number gives a glimpse of the features your 572 may have. The model evolved. Knowing the date will allow you to determine the presence or absence of certain features specific to that timeframe.
Certain stock styles, sight types, and other options became common within specific production years.
Understanding that your rifle’s serial number is an important key to its characteristics will help you see your firearm as a piece of history.
Navigating the Challenges
There are some challenges associated with using serial numbers.
- Inconsistencies: Sometimes, there might be inconsistencies. These can arise from record-keeping errors or from changes in manufacturing processes.
- Exact Dates: Getting an exact date of manufacture can sometimes be difficult.
- Documentation: Preserving factory letters is a valuable tool. It can provide specific insights into the rifle’s history.
Resources and Further Exploration
- Remington Official Website: Start with the official Remington website for basic information.
- Gun Forums and Online Communities: Join dedicated online forums to share information with other collectors and enthusiasts.
- Specialized Publications: Seek out dedicated books and resources that focus specifically on Remington firearms and serial numbers.
Conclusion
Unlocking the mysteries of *Remington 572 serial numbers* offers a fascinating journey through the past. By understanding the structure of these numbers and utilizing the right resources, you can accurately determine your rifle’s age, appreciate its history, and unlock the secrets of its specific features. Your Remington 572 is much more than a shooting tool; it is a piece of history. Embrace the story.
It is hoped that this guide helps you explore the heritage of this classic firearm. This knowledge will enrich your appreciation for your Remington 572 and provide a deeper connection to the rifle’s legacy.
