Remington Rand 1911a1 Markings |top| -
877,715 units
Remington Rand was the largest producer of M1911A1 pistols during WWII, delivering approximately between 1942 and 1945. Identifying an authentic Remington Rand involves examining specific slide variations, frame proofs, and serial number formats. Slide Marking Variations
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| Feature | Correct Marking | |--------|----------------| | Frame left | REMINGTON RAND INC. / SYRACUSE, N.Y. U.S.A. + MODEL 1911 A1 U.S. ARMY | | Frame right | No. 1,234,567 or 1,234,567 | | Slide | Type I, II, or III Remington Rand Colt/US&S slide (correct range) | | Inspector stamp | FJA (most common) | | Ordnance stamp | Flaming bomb + eagle head S | | Proof mark | P on barrel, frame, slide | | Small parts | R or S marks on hammer, safety, etc. | remington rand 1911a1 markings
Its markings are the primary "fingerprints" collectors use to trace the history and authenticity of these legendary firearms. The Slide: Identifying the Three Versions 877,715 units Remington Rand was the largest producer
The Remington Rand 1911A1 was produced from 1941 to 1945, with a total of approximately 84,000 guns manufactured. The pistol was produced under a government contract, and it was intended to help meet the demand for sidearms during World War II. Remington Rand was one of several companies that produced the 1911A1 during the war, and their guns are highly regarded for their quality and accuracy. The "Eagle S" Stamp: This indicates the pistol
- 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
FJAstamped 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.
The most critical "marking" is the serial number, located on the right side of the frame above the trigger guard. Remington Rand produced pistols across three distinct contract periods. Knowing the serial number instantly tells you which contract you are looking at.
Remington Rand 1911A1
Identifying a wartime 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
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As noted, Frank J. Atwood’s initials are the final acceptance mark. However, note that on very early pistols (serial 856,001 – 860,000), the FJA mark is . The inspection was done by a Major R.S. Edwards. Those pistols have a R.S.E. mark instead. An FJA-marked pistol is standard; an R.S.E. marked pistol is a rarity worth a premium.
