The Remington 788 in .308 Winchester remains a popular choice for many shooters, balancing affordability with surprising accuracy. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, and overall value, helping you decide if it's the right rifle for you. We'll examine its history, design, and real-world performance to give you a comprehensive understanding of this classic firearm. This review focuses on the .308 Winchester caliber, but many of the points apply to other calibers the 788 was offered in.
A Look Back at Remington 788 History
Introduced in the 1960s, the Remington 788 quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional accuracy. Unlike many rifles of its era, the 788 boasted a unique controlled-round feed system and a robust, yet refined, action. This design contributed significantly to its accuracy and reliability. While Remington no longer produces the 788, its legacy of precision continues to attract shooters today. Its relatively simple design and readily available parts also make it appealing to those who appreciate maintainability.
Remington 788 .308: Key Features & Design Elements
The Remington 788's success stems from several key design elements:
- Controlled-Round Feed: This system prevents the rifle from feeding multiple rounds at once, a critical feature for reliability and safety. The round is carefully fed into the chamber, minimizing the chance of malfunctions.
- Robust Action: The 788's receiver is built strong and durable, designed to withstand extended use and the pressures of the .308 Winchester cartridge.
- Accuracy Potential: Its design emphasizes accuracy, making it capable of sub-MOA groups with proper ammunition and technique. Many shooters report impressive accuracy from their 788s.
- Adjustable Trigger: Many 788s came with an adjustable trigger, allowing shooters to customize the pull weight to their preference. This feature enhances both precision and comfort.
- Bolt-Action Design: The classic bolt-action design is known for its simplicity, reliability, and smooth operation. The 788's action is a smooth and reliable example of the design.
Performance on the Range: Accuracy and Reliability
The Remington 788's accuracy is its defining feature. Many experienced shooters attest to its capability of producing consistently tight groups, even with factory ammunition. However, the accuracy you experience can depend on factors like the specific rifle's condition, the ammunition used, and the shooter's skill.
Case Study: One online forum discussed a 788 that consistently shot 1-inch groups at 100 yards with handloaded ammunition, highlighting its impressive accuracy potential. However, another user reported slightly larger groups with factory ammo.
Table: Ammunition Test Results (Illustrative)
| Ammunition Type | Average Group Size (100 yards) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brand X, 150 gr. | 1.2 inches | Good consistency, mild recoil |
| Brand Y, 165 gr. | 1.5 inches | Slightly higher recoil, acceptable accuracy |
| Handloaded, 175 gr. | 0.8 inches | Best accuracy achieved |
Note: This table is illustrative and the actual results may vary.
Remington 788: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional Accuracy: Known for its superior accuracy potential.
- Reliable Action: Durable and reliable bolt-action design.
- Affordable Price: Generally available at a reasonable price.
- Adjustable Trigger: Allows for customized trigger pull weight.
- Readily Available Parts: Finding parts for repairs or upgrades is typically easier than with some other older firearms.
Cons:
- Discontinued Production: No longer produced by Remington, making finding new rifles difficult.
- Condition Varies: Used rifles' condition can range significantly. Thorough inspection is crucial.
- Trigger Improvement: While adjustable, some users prefer further trigger work for optimal performance.
Finding and Maintaining Your Remington 788
Finding a Remington 788 might require some searching. Online marketplaces, gun shows, and pawn shops are good places to look. Always carefully inspect any used rifle for wear, damage, and proper function before purchasing. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for maintaining its accuracy and reliability.
Conclusion: Is the Remington 788 Right for You?
The Remington 788 .308 remains a compelling rifle for those seeking accuracy and reliability at a reasonable price. Its legacy of precision and its robust design continue to appeal to many shooters. However, buyers should be aware that finding a good condition rifle may require some effort, and a proper inspection is critical. If you're looking for a classic bolt-action rifle with accuracy potential, the Remington 788 is certainly worth considering. Remember to always handle firearms safely and responsibly.