The Remington 700, a popular bolt-action rifle, has a long history marked by both praise for its accuracy and criticism over safety concerns, specifically regarding its firing pin safety mechanism. This article will delve into the details of these issues, exploring the history, the lawsuits, the recalls, and the subsequent design changes. Understanding these issues is crucial for anyone owning or considering purchasing a Remington 700 rifle.
The Problem: Potential for Unintentional Discharge
The primary safety concern with certain Remington 700 rifles centers around the firing pin safety. In models manufactured before 2014, the firing pin was held in place by a small, relatively inexpensive part called a "Walker-style" plunger. This plunger, when improperly installed or worn, could allow the firing pin to move forward, potentially causing an accidental discharge even when the rifle's trigger wasn't pulled. This could occur during transportation, handling, or even dropping the rifle. This isn't a problem with every Remington 700, only those manufactured with the problematic plunger system.
Case Studies Illustrating the Danger
Numerous incidents involving accidental discharges from Remington 700 rifles have been documented. While precise numbers are difficult to obtain due to underreporting and varying definitions of "accidental discharge," lawsuits and media reports illustrate the potential severity of the problem. These incidents often resulted in serious injuries or fatalities. Many cases highlight scenarios where the rifles discharged while being unloaded, cleaned, or simply handled improperly. The lack of a reliable, consistent, and robust safety mechanism is at the heart of the issue.
The Lawsuits and Recalls
The numerous accidents and resulting injuries led to a significant number of lawsuits against Remington Arms. These lawsuits collectively alleged negligence in design, manufacturing, and warnings. The sheer volume of litigation forced Remington to eventually initiate a recall, though it was a phased recall process spanning several years and ultimately involving millions of rifles.
The Recall Process and its Impact
Remington's recall wasn't a simple, one-time event. It was rolled out in phases, and involved a voluntary exchange program for affected models. This process aimed to replace the problematic Walker-style plunger with a more reliable, improved X-Mark Pro trigger system. However, the complexity of the recall, coupled with the large number of affected rifles, meant that many rifles remained in circulation with the potentially unsafe firing pin system. The recall's effect on Remington's reputation was profound and significantly impacted their market share.
Understanding the X-Mark Pro Trigger
The X-Mark Pro trigger represents Remington's attempt to address the safety concerns. This improved trigger mechanism uses a different design to prevent accidental firing pin release. While the X-Mark Pro has seen reduced reports of unintentional discharges, some concerns have been raised in independent testing about potential inconsistencies within this mechanism and differences in trigger pull weight depending on the specific manufacturing process and materials used.
Buying and Owning a Remington 700 Safely
If you own a Remington 700 manufactured before 2014, it's crucial to determine if your rifle is among those affected by the recall. Check Remington's website or contact a certified gunsmith to inspect your rifle's firing pin safety mechanism.
Even if your rifle has been modified with the X-Mark Pro trigger, always practice safe gun handling. Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and always treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Regular cleaning and maintenance is crucial to ensure all parts function correctly.
Important Safety Reminders:
- Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
- Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
- Be aware of your surroundings and ensure a safe backstop.
- Regularly inspect your firearm for proper function.
- Consider professional gunsmithing for a comprehensive safety check.
The Remington 700 safety issue serves as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous safety standards in firearm manufacturing and the critical need for owners to be fully aware of potential risks associated with their firearms. Always prioritize safety, handle firearms responsibly, and stay informed about any recalls or safety advisories.