Remington 7600 Pump Action 308

3 min read 02-02-2025

Remington 7600 Pump Action 308

The Remington 7600 in .308 Winchester is a pump-action rifle that has garnered both praise and criticism among firearms enthusiasts. Its unique design and features make it a compelling option for hunters and target shooters alike, but understanding its strengths and weaknesses is crucial before making a purchase. This in-depth guide explores everything you need to know about the Remington 7600 .308, from its history and features to its performance and reliability. We'll also delve into common issues and provide valuable insights for potential buyers.

Remington 7600 .308: A Closer Look at its Design and Features

The Remington 7600 stands apart from traditional bolt-action or semi-automatic rifles due to its innovative pump-action design. This system offers several advantages, including:

  • Faster Follow-up Shots: The pump action allows for quicker reloading compared to bolt-action rifles, potentially providing a significant edge in hunting situations requiring rapid follow-up shots.

  • Reliability: Pump-action rifles are generally known for their ruggedness and reliability. The simpler mechanism compared to semi-automatic rifles often translates to fewer potential points of failure. However, Remington 7600's have experienced some reliability issues (discussed later).

  • Controlled Feeding: The pump-action design facilitates controlled feeding of cartridges, reducing the risk of malfunctions caused by improper feeding in challenging conditions such as cold weather or with certain ammunition types.

Key Features of the Remington 7600 .308:

  • Caliber: .308 Winchester (7.62x51mm NATO) – A powerful and versatile cartridge ideal for hunting medium to large game.
  • Action: Pump-action, featuring a smooth and relatively quick cycling mechanism.
  • Capacity: Standard models typically hold 4 rounds in the magazine, plus one in the chamber.
  • Safety: Manual cross-bolt safety, located conveniently behind the trigger guard.
  • Stock: Usually made of synthetic material, offering durability and resistance to the elements. Wood stocks were also available on certain models.
  • Barrel Length: Varies depending on the specific model, but common barrel lengths range from 22 inches to 24 inches.

The Remington 7600's Internal Mechanism: A Detailed Examination

The pump-action mechanism of the Remington 7600 involves a forend that, when pumped, cycles the action, extracting the spent cartridge and chambering a fresh round. This is a relatively simple, robust design, however, the interaction of various parts is precise and requires proper lubrication and maintenance to function optimally.

Performance and Reliability: A Balanced Perspective

The Remington 7600 in .308 is generally capable of good accuracy, especially with quality ammunition and proper sighting. However, it's important to acknowledge some documented reliability problems.

Positive Aspects of Performance:

  • Accuracy: Many users report acceptable accuracy at hunting ranges (100-300 yards). Accuracy is highly dependent on the individual rifle, ammo used, and shooter proficiency.
  • Power: The .308 Winchester cartridge delivers significant stopping power, making it suitable for a wide range of hunting applications.

Negative Aspects of Reliability (and the Subsequent Recall):

A significant issue affecting some Remington 7600 rifles involved unexpected discharges. This prompted a massive recall by Remington. This problem is associated with a flawed design where the firing pin could be inadvertently released under certain conditions. If you own a Remington 7600, it's absolutely critical to verify whether it's been included in a recall and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions if it has been.

Case Study: The Remington 7600 Recall

The Remington 7600 recall serves as a stark reminder of the importance of following manufacturer safety advisories. The scale of the recall and the potential safety risks highlighted the need for rigorous quality control and design reviews in firearm manufacturing.

Is the Remington 7600 .308 Right for You?

The Remington 7600 .308 presents a compelling blend of features, but potential buyers must weigh the pros and cons carefully, especially given the history of reliability problems.

Advantages:

  • Faster follow-up shots
  • Relatively simple design
  • Powerful .308 cartridge
  • Affordable compared to some other rifles

Disadvantages:

  • History of reliability issues (addressed by recall, but some may still exist)
  • May not be as accurate as high-end bolt-action rifles
  • Potential for increased recoil compared to lighter calibers

Before purchasing a used Remington 7600:

  1. Thoroughly inspect the firearm: Check for any signs of damage or wear.
  2. Verify if it's part of a recall: Consult Remington's website or contact them directly.
  3. Function test the rifle: Ensure smooth operation of the pump and reliable cycling. Fire a few rounds to check for any issues.

Ultimately, the Remington 7600 in .308 can be a solid and effective hunting rifle for those who understand its potential drawbacks and have thoroughly checked the firearm's history. However, careful research and due diligence are essential before purchasing. The potential safety concerns linked to the recall shouldn't be overlooked.

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