Gun Review of the Remington Model 770

The Remington Model 770 is an updated version of the Remington 710 that was introduced as an economy level rifle. The Model 710, like most newly designed rifles, went through a period of growing pains that caused it to have a reputation of poor quality, accuracy and reliability. Remington appears to have listened to these complaints, addressed the problems and developed the older Model 710 into the newer Model 770.

The Remington Model 770 is still an economy priced hunting rifle. The Remington Model 770 is offered with a bore sighted 3X9 scope. The Remington Model 770 is offered in .243 Winchester, .270 Winchester, 7mm-08 Remington, 7mm Remington Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum, 30-06 Springfield, and .308 Winchester. One complaint about the Model 710 was that the bolt moved through a polymer receiver and had a flimsy feel. The Model 770's receiver is now made of steel which probably doesn't really accomplish anything except added weight, but the bolt moves smoother and has a better feel. Problems with reliability and accuracy have also been addressed. The magazine latch was also considered flimsy and Remington has been beefed up the latch on the Model 770.

While I still do not personally like the looks of the stock, rubberized inserts in the stock do provide a much better feel and will be quite useful in the rain or snow. The Remington Model 770 weighs in around 8 ½ pounds with the scope which is pretty good. A compact Model 770 is also offered which could be a great choice for those who hunt in the brush.

Accuracy testing with a Remington Model 770 in 30-06 proved to be more than adequate for hunting. The only load used was a factory 150 grain Winchester Power Point. Three shot groups at hundred yards were in the 1 ½ inch range which is more than sufficient for deer hunting. Playing around with different loads or handloading would probably produce better groups. Recoil was about what was expected from a bolt action 30-06.

In my somewhat limited experience with both the Model 710 and the Model 770, the 770 definitely has a better and sturdier feel in the hands. While I am still a fan of the Stevens Model 200 as the best economy hunting rifle, the Remington Model 770 is worth a look. A lot of choosing a hunting rifle is based upon personal preference. The feel of a gun in the hands is a subjective measurement that won't be the same for everyone. While I don't like the looks of the Model 770 stock, other people may think that it looks great. Personal preference is the reason that we have so many choices of quality hunting rifles in America. If you chose to buy the Remington Model 770 it should put meat in the freezer for many years to come.