HISTORY AND SERIAL NUMBERS FOR REMINGTON DATE CODE DATA & SxS SHOTGUN MANUFACTURED FROM 1921 to 2012

Firearms Identification (Code located on barrel, left side of frame) Month of Manufacture (Code letter corresponds to numeral underneath).

The following barrel code information is reliable when used to identify the month and year of manufacture of Remington rifles since Remington seldom replaced barrels. When used to date Remington shotguns, where the barrel is easily changed, make sure the barrel is original to the shotgun. For example “KP” would be 5 (May) 1923, and “RYY” would be 11 (November) 1952.

B L A C K P O W D E R X

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Additional markings if present will indicate the following.

2 Part order replacement bbl.

3 Service section repair.

4 Returned as received.

5 Employee sale.

* Remington suspended barrel date code stamping circa August 1999 – October 2001, but did continue to mark shipping box end flaps with the date code.

E. REMINGTON & SONS WHITMORE MODELS

E. REMINGTON & SONS MODELS 1882, 1883, 1885 AND 1887

REMINGTON ARMS COMPANY MODEL 1889 TOTAL Mfg. 134200

REMINGTON ARMS COMPANY MODEL 1900 TOTAL Mfg. 98508

REMINGTON ARMS COMPANY MODEL 1894 TOTAL Mfg. 41194

REMINGTON ARMS COMPANY

MODEL 1894 REM. SPCL. TOTAL Mfg. Approx. 12, W/ 4 recorded 

Remington side-by-side (SxS) shotguns represent an important chapter in American gunmaking history. Although Remington Arms is best known for its pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns, the company also produced a range of double-barrel side-by-side shotguns that combined durability, practicality, and classic design.

Origins and Early Development

Remington’s involvement with side-by-side shotguns dates back to the late 19th century. During this period, double-barrel shotguns were the standard choice for hunters and sportsmen in the United States and Europe.

Remington initially focused on producing reliable and affordable shotguns for the American market, competing with other domestic manufacturers such as Parker Brothers and L.C. Smith. These early firearms emphasized function and durability rather than luxury.

Transition into the 20th Century

By the early 20th century, Remington had refined its approach to side-by-side shotguns, introducing models that were both robust and practical for field use. While not typically positioned as high-end “best guns,” Remington SxS shotguns were valued for their reliability and accessibility.

These guns were widely used for upland bird hunting and waterfowl shooting, where dependability in harsh conditions was essential.

Acquisition of Parker Brothers (1934)

A major turning point came in 1934 when Remington Arms acquired Parker Brothers, one of America’s most prestigious shotgun makers.

Following the acquisition, Parker side-by-side shotguns continued to be produced under Remington ownership at the Ilion, New York factory. These later guns are commonly referred to as “Remington Parkers.”

This acquisition significantly strengthened Remington’s position in the side-by-side shotgun market, allowing it to offer both practical field guns and higher-grade firearms.

Remington Side-by-Side Models

1. Remington Model 1894

One of the company’s primary early side-by-side shotguns, the Model 1894 was produced in various grades and configurations. It featured exposed hammers in earlier versions and later evolved into hammerless designs.

2. Remington Model 1900

A simplified and more affordable version of the Model 1894, the Model 1900 was designed as a working gun. It lacked some of the refinements of higher-grade models but was known for its strength and reliability.

3. Remington Model 1889

This was one of Remington’s early hammerless side-by-side shotguns. It featured a solid action design and was produced for a relatively short period, making it of interest to collectors today.

4. Remington Parkers

After 1934, Remington continued the production of Parker side-by-side shotguns. These guns retained much of the original Parker design and quality, though they were produced in smaller numbers before World War II.

Design and Features

Remington side-by-side shotguns were built with a focus on practicality and durability. Common features included:

• Double-barrel configuration for quick follow-up shots
• Solid steel receivers and robust locking systems
• Double triggers in most models
• Walnut stocks with functional checkering
• Extractor or ejector systems depending on grade

While generally less ornate than high-end British guns, Remington shotguns were designed to perform reliably in demanding field conditions.

Use and Popularity

Remington SxS shotguns were widely used across the United States for:

• Upland game hunting (pheasant, quail, grouse)
• Waterfowl hunting
• General-purpose field shooting

Their straightforward design and rugged construction made them popular among working hunters and sportsmen.

Decline of Side-by-Side Production

By the mid-20th century, side-by-side shotguns began to decline in popularity in the United States. Pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns, including Remington’s own Model 870 and Model 1100, became more dominant due to their higher capacity and ease of use.

Production of Remington side-by-side shotguns eventually ceased, marking the end of an era in American shotgun manufacturing.

Characteristics of Remington SxS Shotguns

Remington side-by-side guns are known for:

• Durable and rugged construction
• Simple, reliable mechanical design
• Good balance and handling in the field
• Practical, no-nonsense approach to gunmaking

These traits made them dependable tools for generations of hunters.

Collector Interest

Today, Remington side-by-side shotguns are valued by collectors and enthusiasts. Early models such as the Model 1889 and Model 1894 are particularly sought after, especially in good condition.

Remington-produced Parker shotguns are also highly collectible, combining the heritage of Parker Brothers with Remington manufacturing.

Factors influencing value include condition, originality, gauge, and rarity.

Legacy and Significance

Remington’s side-by-side shotguns represent an important part of the company’s broader history. While overshadowed by its later pump-action and semi-automatic firearms, these double guns demonstrate Remington’s early commitment to producing reliable sporting arms.

They also reflect the transition in American firearms from traditional double-barrel designs to more modern repeating shotguns.

Conclusion

Remington side-by-side shotguns played a significant role in American hunting and sporting traditions. Built for durability and performance, they served generations of hunters before being replaced by newer designs.

Today, they remain valued for their historical importance, practical design, and connection to the golden age of American shotgun manufacturing.