Between 1942 and 1945, Remington Rand produced nearly 900,000 M1911A1 pistols—more than any other contractor. Today, these pistols are highly sought after, but their value and authenticity hinge entirely on understanding their unique markings. This guide dives deep into the slide stamps, frame markings, inspection proofs, and serial number ranges that define a genuine Remington Rand 1911A1.
Complete Guide to Remington Rand 1911A1 Markings The Remington Rand 1911A1 is the most mass-produced production variant of the iconic .45 ACP pistol used during World War II. The company manufactured approximately 875,000 units between 1942 and 1945. For collectors and historians, authenticating a Remington Rand requires a deep understanding of its unique stamped markings. Frame Markings (Right Side)
| Production Period | Serial Range | Distinctive Markings | |------------------|--------------|----------------------| | Early 1942 | No. 1 – 700,000 (approx) | Smaller font, periods after "INC" and "N.Y." | | Late 1942 – 1943 | 700,000 – 1,600,000 | Larger font, no periods after "INC" or "N.Y." | | 1944 | 1,600,000 – 2,200,000 | Smooth slide sides (no "No." prefix on serial?) — see slide section | | 1945 | 2,200,000 – 2,618,405 | Late war finish changes, sometimes parkerizing over tool marks | remington rand 1911a1 markings
Located on the left side of the slide, this text features large, distinct lettering. These were often found on guns in the 916,xxx to 960,xxx serial number range. Finish: Primarily Dulite. Type II (Mid - "Small Lettering/N.Y."): Marking: REMINGTON RAND INC. / SYRACUSE, N.Y. U.S.A.
: Small block letters. This is the rarest slide variation. Type 3 (Late 1943 to 1945) Text Layout : Two lines of text. Wording : REMINGTON RAND INC. / SYRACUSE, N.Y. U.S.A. Between 1942 and 1945, Remington Rand produced nearly
Early pistols used the "No." prefix and commas; late 1944/1945 dropped the prefix and commas in many cases.
This is a on the markings found on Remington Rand 1911A1 pistols manufactured during World War II. Remington Rand (typewriter company) was one of the primary contractors for the M1911A1, producing approximately 877,000 pistols between 1942 and 1945. Complete Guide to Remington Rand 1911A1 Markings The
: Stamped forward of the slide stop pin hole.
On the right side of the frame, you will see UNITED STATES PROPERTY and the designation M 1911 A1 U.S. ARMY .