Cooey Model 840 Serial Number Lookup [hot] May 2026

For generations of Canadian shooters, hunters, and trappers, the name "Cooey" represents rugged reliability and affordability. Among the most iconic of these firearms is the Cooey Model 840 , a bolt-action shotgun that has served as a first gun for countless outdoorsmen. Whether you inherited one from your grandfather or picked one up at a rural auction, understanding its history often starts with one question: How do I perform a Cooey Model 840 serial number lookup?

Unlike modern firearms manufactured by mega-corporations like Winchester or Remington, dating a Cooey is not a straightforward, database-driven process. This article will explain everything you need to know about the serial numbering system (or lack thereof), how to identify your specific model variation, and where to find the hidden markings on your barrel and receiver. Before diving into the serial number lookup, it’s critical to understand the manufacturer’s timeline. The Cooey Machine & Arms Company was founded in 1919 by John Cooey in Cobourg, Ontario. The Model 840 was introduced in the late 1930s as an improvement over the earlier single-shot models (like the Model 39 and 84).

The Model 840 is a single-shot, bolt-action .410 bore shotgun (though rare 20-gauge versions exist). It is famous for its "snap-action" bolt release and lightweight design. Production continued through World War II and into the post-war era until 1961, when Cooey was purchased by Olin Industries—the parent company of Winchester-Western.