Introduction
The Remington 742 Woodsmaster: a name synonymous with American sporting rifles. For decades, it was a staple in hunting camps and shooting ranges across the United States, a rifle praised for its semi-automatic action and chamberings that catered to a wide variety of game. But beyond its functionality, there’s a historical aspect to this rifle, a story etched into its very being. And that story begins with understanding the *Remington 742 date codes*. This guide will take you through the intricacies of dating your 742, unlocking a deeper appreciation for its history and, potentially, understanding its value.
Knowing the manufacturing date of your Remington 742 is more than just a matter of historical curiosity; it’s a crucial element that influences the value and understanding of the rifle itself. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a casual hunter, or someone simply curious about the firearm in their possession, the date code is your key. This little stamping on the barrel holds a wealth of information, providing insight into its production year, potential issues, and even the likelihood of its place in firearm history.
This article aims to be your comprehensive guide to understanding, locating, and interpreting the *Remington 742 date codes*. We’ll explore the unique Remington system, the nuances of finding the code on the rifle, and how it connects to its value and collectibility.
The Remington Date Code System
Remington’s system to indicate its production years is ingeniously simple, yet packed with information. It’s a two-letter code stamped into the barrel, often near the receiver. This system, used on numerous Remington firearms, allows for relatively straightforward dating, provided you know the keys to unlock it. The precision of this system is important, because it is what allows for accurate dating of the *Remington 742*.
The core of this system involves a letter representing the month and another for the year. A single glance at these letters, coupled with a date code chart, allows you to determine the rifle’s birth month and year of manufacture. You can find these charts on numerous firearms-related websites and forums. The accuracy and availability of these resources make it an easy task to decipher any *Remington 742 date code*.
Locating the Date Code on the Remington 742
Finding the *Remington 742 date codes* requires knowing where to look. Typically, the stamp will be found on the barrel, usually on the left side, close to where it connects with the receiver. However, there can be variances, and these locations can be tricky, especially with wear and tear on the barrel.
Carefully examine this area. It’s a good idea to start by cleaning the barrel in this location. Lightly cleaning with a gun-specific cleaner, or even a soft cloth, can remove any dirt, grease, or residue that might obscure the markings. The *Remington 742 date codes* can sometimes be difficult to read due to wear, or even the original stamping quality.
If the code is difficult to see, consider using a magnifying glass. This will help you see the code more clearly. When examining, pay attention to the details. The stamping may be very small, and even a small amount of wear can make it difficult to read. Good lighting is critical for a proper examination. Ensure the area is well-lit, or use a flashlight to help distinguish the markings.
Decoding the Date Code
Decoding the Month
Now, let’s delve into the art of deciphering the code. The first letter in the code will always correspond to the month the rifle was manufactured. Remington uses a straightforward alphabet system, where each letter represents a month of the year. For example, “A” represents January, “B” represents February, and so on, until “L” represents December. This system makes it relatively easy to narrow down the manufacturing timeframe.
Remember, the correct order is key. The initial letter, regardless of any other markings, is always the month. Now, take a look at the table of values that will assist you. You may have to search online, but there are many reputable sources. These tables are easy to use.
Decoding the Year
The second letter of the code signifies the year of manufacture. This system is slightly more complex, as Remington re-used the alphabet over multiple decades. The alphabet was reused. Determining the correct decade requires cross-referencing with other features of the rifle, and a bit of knowledge of Remington’s production history. For the *Remington 742 date codes*, understanding the year component is vital for accurate dating.
The letter codes were used in sequence. This means a letter ‘A’ will stand for the first year of a production run, a letter ‘B’ for the second, and so on. For example, a code of “BN” would suggest a manufacturing date. Cross reference this with the style and features of the gun, and you may know the gun was made in the 1970s.
Common Problems and Considerations
While the date code is generally reliable, there are considerations to keep in mind. Barrel replacement, whether due to damage or wear, can change the stamped code. If the barrel is not the original factory barrel, the date code will not reflect the age of the receiver or other components. This means that if you are trying to understand the value of the *Remington 742*, you must know whether the barrel is original or not.
The stamping process, or even the gun’s subsequent use, can cause the date code to become faint or even unreadable. This makes dating difficult. Carefully consider this when assessing the information. Try the techniques described above (magnification, lighting, etc.).
There are also potential manufacturing discrepancies. While rare, errors in the stamping process can occur. If the code seems unusual, or doesn’t match other known information about the rifle, cross-referencing with a collector or gunsmith might be helpful.
One of the problems with the Remington 742 that may be linked to manufacturing dates is the potential for extraction issues. Some users find that spent casings may stick in the chamber. While this is not a universal problem, it can occur. Newer rifles may be more susceptible to these issues. Older rifles may show an earlier pattern of wear, and if the rifle has been maintained, will be more likely to perform well.
Value and Collectibility
The manufacturing date of a *Remington 742* plays a role in determining its value. For collectors, the condition is a significant factor. Rifles in excellent condition, especially those from earlier production years, tend to fetch higher prices. The earlier guns have a distinct patina, and the quality of the parts may be different.
A rifle’s originality is a key factor. Collectors often prefer rifles that are in their original condition, with all factory parts. Any aftermarket modifications may negatively affect the value. Original condition indicates that it is as the manufacturer originally made it.
The condition of the rifle also influences its value. Those in near-mint condition will likely command a premium price. The bluing, the wood’s finish, and the overall care taken in the rifle’s preservation all significantly impact its worth. For a *Remington 742*, consider that any damage impacts the value.
Knowing your rifle’s date code can be a valuable resource. If your rifle’s date code falls within a period known for specific recalls or issues, this information could influence the price, especially if the rifle still has the potential problem. If a recall was issued, and if the problem was resolved, this would influence a *Remington 742*’s value.
Conclusion
In conclusion, deciphering the *Remington 742 date codes* is a critical step in understanding your rifle. It unlocks its history, helps determine its value, and adds depth to your appreciation for this classic firearm. Whether you’re a collector or a casual user, the knowledge provided by this code is a valuable asset.
Take the time to locate and decode your *Remington 742 date codes*. This will provide you with a window into its history.
Resources
For further research, there are a few resources you can use. Search for “Remington date codes” or “Remington 742 date code” in the search engines. You will find various forums and enthusiast websites. Many provide information and a visual guide. Many gun auction sites also have examples to assist with dating and valuation.
So, grab your Remington 742, find the date code, and unlock a deeper understanding of your rifle. The history awaits.
