A generic military proof stamp indicating proof-firing. It is found on the top of the slide (in front of the rear sight) and on the left side of the frame (near the magazine release). The "P" on the slide and frame should match in size and typeface style.
The Remington Rand 1911A1 is highly collectible due to its historical significance and distinctive markings. The value of a Remington Rand 1911A1 can vary widely, depending on its condition, rarity, and provenance. In general, Remington Rand 1911A1s with their original finish, minimal wear, and all their original markings can command a premium price.
The most common inspector mark found on almost all Remington Rand frames is the initials "FJA" —representing Colonel Frank J. Atwood, the Ordnance Officer in charge of the Rochester District. This is stamped on the left side behind the trigger.
Note: This lettering is noticeably larger than later variants. remington rand 1911a1 markings
While Colt is the most famous name, Remington Rand's production numbers dwarfed everyone else's, making them the most common but historically significant variant. A World War I-era Remington-UMC 1911 has a completely different set of markings from a WWII Remington Rand 1911A1, a distinction often missed by new collectors. Understanding this difference is crucial.
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
Be aware: Many replacement barrels during arsenal rebuilds came from Flannery, Colt, or Springfield. An HS marking indicates a High Standard barrel—common in late-war and post-war rebuilds. A generic military proof stamp indicating proof-firing
: Look for stamps on the top lip or the base feed lip. Common contractors included General Shaver ( "G" ), Scovill ( "S" ), and Little ( "L" ).
The frame tells the true story. Unlike Colt, Remington Rand serial numbers are sequential and well-documented.
Early guns (1942-1943) had a Du-Lite blue-black finish. Later guns (1944-1945) switched to a light gray or green-gray zinc parkerized finish. The Remington Rand 1911A1 is highly collectible due
The Type III marking—the most common variation—continued using the Syracuse address but adopted a smaller, more compact font. It reads:
:REMINGTON RAND INC.DIV. OF MANUFACTURESYRACUSE, N.Y. U.S.A.
proof mark is typically located near the magazine release or on top of the slide. Slide Markings (Rollmarks)
The left side of the frame typically contains the manufacturer, model, and serial number.