Browning Recurve Serial Number Lookup
Browning Recurve Serial Number Lookup: A Guide for Archers
If you own a Browning recurve bow, you might be curious about its history and value. One way to find out more about your bow is to look up its serial number. The serial number can tell you when and where your bow was made, as well as its model and grade. However, finding and decoding the serial number can be tricky, as Browning used different systems over the years. Here is a guide to help you with your Browning recurve serial number lookup.
Browning Recurve Serial Number Lookup
Where to Find the Serial Number
The serial number of your Browning recurve bow is usually stamped on the lower limb, near the handle. However, some older models may have the serial number on the upper limb or on the riser. You may need to remove any accessories or attachments to see the serial number clearly. If you cannot find the serial number on your bow, you can contact Browning customer service for assistance.
How to Decode the Serial Number
Browning used different serial number systems for its recurve bows, depending on the year and model. Here are some examples of how to decode the serial number of your Browning recurve bow:
Pre-1960 models: These bows have a four-digit serial number that indicates the year and month of manufacture. For example, 5909 means September 1959.
1960-1967 models: These bows have a letter prefix followed by a four-digit serial number. The letter indicates the model and grade of the bow, while the first two digits indicate the year and the last two digits indicate the month of manufacture. For example, C6012 means Challenger model, grade 1, December 1960.
1968-1976 models: These bows have a letter prefix followed by a five-digit serial number. The letter indicates the model and grade of the bow, while the first digit indicates the last digit of the year and the last four digits indicate the production number. For example, N71234 means Nomad model, grade 1, 1977, production number 1234.
1977-1980 models: These bows have a letter prefix followed by a six-digit serial number. The letter indicates the model and grade of the bow, while the first two digits indicate the year and the last four digits indicate the production number. For example, W781234 means Wasp model, grade 1, 1978, production number 1234.
1981-1988 models: These bows have a letter prefix followed by a seven-digit serial number. The letter indicates the model and grade of the bow, while the first three digits indicate the year and month of manufacture and the last four digits indicate the production number. For example, C8111234 means Cobra model, grade 1, November 1981, production number 1234.
1989-present models: These bows have a two-letter code followed by a six-digit serial number. The two-letter code indicates the year of manufacture using a reverse alphabetical order (Z=1, Y=2,...A=26), while the first four digits indicate the model and grade of the bow and the last two digits indicate the production number. For example, PN123456 means 1989, Nomad model, grade 1, production number 56.
How to Use the Serial Number Information
Once you have decoded your Browning recurve serial number, you can use it to learn more about your bow's history and value. You can compare your bow's features and condition with other similar models on online forums or auction sites. You can also contact Browning customer service or an expert appraiser for more information. However, keep in mind that the value of your bow depends on many factors besides its age and model, such as its rarity, demand, quality and originality.
Conclusion
Browning recurve bows are popular among archers for their quality and performance. If you own one of these bows, you can use its serial number to find out more about its origin and worth. By c481cea774