Remington Rand: 1911a1 Markings [upd]

Identifying a wartime Remington Rand 1911A1 requires a keen eye for its distinct production markings. As the largest manufacturer of M1911A1 pistols during World War II—producing nearly 959,000 units between 1943 and 1945—Remington Rand evolved its stamping processes to prioritize speed and cost-efficiency. 1. Slide Marking Variations

Collectors categorize Remington Rand slides into three "Types" based on the roll marks found on the left side:

Type 1 (Early 1942–Early 1943): Features a large logo. The text "REMINGTON RAND INC." is on the top line, with "SYRACUSE, N.Y. U.S.A." on the second line. These early models often had a Du-Lite blue finish before the transition to Parkerizing.

(Early 1943–Mid 1943): The logo was reduced in size. The text remains the same as Type 1 but occupies a smaller footprint on the slide. remington rand 1911a1 markings

Type 3 (Mid 1943–1945): The most common variant. The manufacturer's name and address are still present, but the spacing and font size are refined for high-volume production.

Collector Tip: A slide marked with "7790314" is not a wartime Remington Rand original; it is a replacement slide made post-WWII by contractors like Colt or SanColMar. 2. Receiver and Frame Markings

The frame contains the most critical information for verifying authenticity: Remington 1911 A1 - Original WW II issue. Identifying a wartime Remington Rand 1911A1 requires a

The Remington Rand 1911A1 is a variant of the M1911 pistol that was produced during World War II. Here are some common markings found on a Remington Rand 1911A1:

  • Remington Rand Logo: The Remington Rand logo, which features the company name in a distinctive font, is usually found on the left side of the frame, near the front strap.
  • U.S. Property Mark: The U.S. Property Mark, which features the text "U.S. PROPERTY" in a block font, is usually found on the right side of the frame, near the rear strap.
  • P-64: This is a manufacturer's code, indicating that the pistol was produced by Remington Rand. It is usually found on the left side of the frame, near the ejection port.
  • RA: This is another code associated with Remington Rand, and it is often found in conjunction with the P-64 code.
  • Serial Number: The serial number of the pistol is usually found on the frame, near the front strap, and on the slide.
  • Inspector's Mark: The inspector's mark, which features the initials of the inspector, is usually found on the frame or slide.

Here are some specific markings that may be found on a Remington Rand 1911A1:

  • Slide markings:
    • "MODEL OF 1911 A1 U.S. ARMY"
    • "CAL. .45"
    • Serial number
  • Frame markings:
    • Remington Rand logo
    • U.S. Property Mark
    • P-64 and/or RA code
    • Inspector's mark

Keep in mind that not all Remington Rand 1911A1 pistols will have all of these markings, and some may have additional markings not listed here. If you're looking to identify a specific pistol, it's a good idea to consult with a firearms expert or collector. Remington Rand Logo : The Remington Rand logo,

Type 3 (Late Production – "The Standard GI Mark")

  • Text: REMINGTON RAND INC. SYRACUSE N.Y. (Periods after INC and N, comma after Syracuse)
  • Font: Bold, blocky sans-serif.
  • Arrangement: Three lines, but the N.Y. is often larger.
  • Period: Serial approx. 2.2 million and up.
  • Collector Note: This is the most common marking. If you see a Remington Rand, 90% of the time it is a Type 3.

The Secret Language: Subcontractor Markings

Because Remington Rand did not make all their own parts, you will find cryptic letters and symbols inside the slide, on the barrel, and on small components. These are not defects; they are subcontractor identification marks.

Left Side Markings: The Ordnance "Crossed Cannons"

On the left side of the frame, just behind the trigger guard, you will find the U.S. Ordnance Department acceptance mark. It is an eagle's head with a "S" (for Springfield inspector) or a "crossed cannons" escutcheon.

  • The "Eagle S" Stamp: This indicates the pistol passed final inspection at Springfield Armory. The "S" changes font slightly over the years. Large "S" is early; small "S" is late.
  • FJA: This is the inspection initials of Colonel Frank J. Atwood. You will find FJA stamped in a box on the left side of the frame near the magazine release. He was the chief Ordnance inspector for Remington Rand from 1942 to 1945.
  • Crossed Cannons: This is the Ordnance proof mark. It is usually stamped on the left side of the slide and frame. It must be crisp and clear. A mushy or faint stamp often indicates a refinish or fake.

3. Slide Markings (Left Side)

Remington Rand slides vary significantly because they also used slides from Colt and Union Switch & Signal (US&S) due to wartime shortages.