In the 1.69 million serial range, you will occasionally find a frame marked with a crude "X" on the left side. This is the "Savage 44" frame. During a subcontract, Savage (famous for the 1907 pistol) produced raw forgings for Remington Rand. These frames have a distinct "X" stamp and slightly different contouring near the slide stop pin.
The most visible marking is the manufacturer's name on the slide. Remington Rand significantly altered their rollmark design three times. Identifying which type you have is the first step to dating the pistol.
For collectors, historians, and shooting enthusiasts, few firearms carry the weight of history quite like the M1911A1. While Colt is often the first name that comes to mind, the most prolific manufacturer of the iconic "Government Model" during World War II was not the original patent holder, but a typewriter company: Remington Rand. remington rand 1911a1 markings
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.
Remington Rand used sub-inspector marks (small letters stamped on the frame, slide, and barrel). These are vital for authenticity. In the 1
Common inspectors' stamps include:
If an FJA mark is present but the crossed-cannon mark is missing, the pistol may have been refinished or is a parts assembly. Both should appear together on original, unrefinished guns. If an FJA mark is present but the
Remington Rand produced approximately 877,000 M1911A1s from early 1943 to late 1945. Serial numbers are on the right side of the frame, above the trigger guard.
Pro tip: If your serial number falls outside 1,840,000–2,450,000, it may be a commercial model or a mixmaster—proceed with caution.