How Many Remington Cateyes Were Made

How Many Remington Cateyes Were Made? A Collector's Conundrum

The exact number of Remington Cateye shotguns ever produced remains a mystery, shrouded in the mists of time and incomplete manufacturing records. This lack of precise data fuels the fascination and, for some, the frustration, surrounding these highly collectible firearms. Unlike modern firearms with meticulous production tracking, Remington's historical records for the Cateye era are often fragmented or non-existent, making definitive answers elusive.

Understanding the Remington Cateye

Before diving into the numbers (or lack thereof), let's briefly define what constitutes a Remington Cateye. These shotguns, primarily produced in the early to mid-20th century, are characterized by their distinctive "cateye" bead sight. This unique sight, shaped like a cat's eye, is the defining feature that sets them apart from other Remington models. However, the term "Cateye" is often applied loosely, sometimes encompassing variations within similar Remington models of that period.

The Challenges in Determining Production Numbers

Several factors contribute to the difficulty in pinpointing the exact number of Remington Cateyes manufactured:

• Incomplete Records: As mentioned earlier, Remington's historical production records from that era are not comprehensive. Many records were lost, destroyed, or simply never meticulously maintained.
• Variations and Model Designations: The term "Cateye" isn't a formal model designation. Remington produced numerous shotguns during this time, and the "cateye" sight was sometimes used across various models and configurations, making classification complex.
• Time and Obsolescence: The passage of time itself adds to the challenge. Tracking down surviving production documents from decades past is an arduous task, even for dedicated researchers and historians.

What Collectors Know (and Don't Know)

While we lack a precise figure, some insights can be gleaned from collector communities and firearm experts:

• Rarity: Remington Cateyes are generally considered rare, especially in excellent condition. Their scarcity is a contributing factor to their high collector value.
• Regional Variations: Production numbers likely varied by region and distributor.
• Serial Number Tracking: Examining serial numbers can offer some clues, though this method is far from definitive and requires extensive research across various sources and collectors.

The Importance of Research and Careful Sourcing

For collectors, understanding the complexities surrounding Remington Cateye production numbers is crucial. It highlights the importance of thorough research, careful authentication, and reliance on reputable sources when acquiring these highly sought-after shotguns. The thrill of the hunt for information—and for a well-preserved Cateye—is a key part of the collector experience itself.

Conclusion: The Enigmatic Appeal of the Remington Cateye

Ultimately, the exact number of Remington Cateye shotguns produced remains a question mark. The incomplete historical records and the imprecise nature of the "Cateye" designation make a definitive answer unattainable. However, the lack of precise numbers only adds to the mystique and desirability of these unique firearms for collectors, ensuring that the search for knowledge, and the hunt for the perfect Cateye, will continue for years to come.