Model 31a 12 guage

[lvtwentytwo]

I'm thinking about purchasing this old Model 30. Can anybody tell me what the number "501" stamped below the words "Model 31" on the receiver of this 12 gauge shotgun means?

Also, any idea what this gun maybe worth? I see it has the deluxe checkering, but not a ribbed barrel. I'm not sure yet when it was made. I've asked the owner to send me the date code.





Thx!

[Researcher]

The 501 is the serial number. According to the old Remington Arms Co., Inc. factory ledger, the Model 31 receiver with serial number 501 was put in work between 5 and 10 July 1931. Here is a Model 31 ad from the June 1931 issue of Field & Stream --

Model 31 ad June 1931 Field & Stream.jpg (115.12 KiB) Viewed 3424 times

and an early Model 31 brochure --

Model 31 3-shot Brochur.jpg (151.93 KiB) Viewed 3424 times

Looks like a nice early example. The Model 31A "Standard" Grade wood was checkered from the Model 31 introduction until 1937 when the Model 31AP "Standard" Grade was introduced with a plain stock and the ringed forearm --

Model 31AP Standard Grade.jpeg (321.8 KiB) Viewed 3424 times

For 1937 and 8 they sold off the old checkered "Standard" Grades as the Model 31AC "Standard" Grade --

Model 31AC Standard Grade 8-37.jpeg (508.33 KiB) Viewed 3424 times

By 1939 there was just the Model 31A "Standard" Grade, now with the plain stock and ringed forearm.

If the stock is full length to the original butt plate, and the barrel is the most common 30-inch full choke, it would max out at $300 in the pawn shops around here. If the stock has been cut and a recoil pad installed that would drop the price. Probably a bit of a premium for a 28-inch modified choke barrel and a bit more for a 26-inch improved cylinder or the 32-inch full choke barrel.

[lvtwentytwo]

Researcher,

It's a 30" barrel, original butt plate with no apparent date code on the barrel.

Would you venture a guess as to the condition? My guess would be 80%, and the blue book of guns says, 80% = $225

Not sure about a premium either for a low serial number.

[Researcher]

In my estimation, this is one of those rare times when the Blue Book is right on.

[lvtwentytwo]

Thx Researcher....I passed the info on to the seller to help him out with his sale. Although he said he'd take $250, I think I'm going to pass.

[Researcher]

Well, it appears some think the low serial number is worth quite a premium --

https://www.gunsinternational.com/guns- ... =101233239