Remington Model 788 .308 Win: An In-Depth Review and Buyer’s Guide

The Remington Model 788 in .308 Winchester is a rifle that often sparks conversation among firearm enthusiasts. Perhaps you’re looking for information on its accuracy, its reliability, or maybe you’re considering purchasing one. This comprehensive guide delves into every facet of the Remington Model 788 .308 Win, providing you with the knowledge and insights needed to make informed decisions. We’ll explore its history, analyze its features, discuss its performance, and ultimately, help you understand why this rifle continues to be a subject of interest decades after its production ceased.

The Remington Model 788: A Rifle Born of Innovation

The Remington Model 788, introduced in 1967, was designed as a more economical alternative to the popular Model 700. Remington sought to provide a rifle that delivered exceptional accuracy without the higher price tag associated with its flagship model. This led to several innovative design choices that set the 788 apart. While production ended in 1983, its legacy lives on through its reputation for accuracy and affordability.

The rifle’s design was driven by a need to reduce manufacturing costs while maintaining performance. This meant simplifying certain features and utilizing different production methods. The result was a rifle that, while perhaps not as aesthetically refined as the Model 700, proved to be remarkably accurate and reliable. The Model 788 was initially offered in several calibers, including the .308 Winchester, which quickly became one of its most popular chamberings.

The 788’s action differs significantly from the Model 700. It features a rear-locking bolt with multiple locking lugs that engage directly into the receiver. This design contributes to its inherent accuracy, as it provides a rigid and stable platform for the cartridge during firing. The receiver itself is also shorter and stiffer than that of the Model 700, further enhancing accuracy. While some criticize the appearance of the bolt and the overall finish of the rifle, its performance speaks for itself.

Why the .308 Winchester Chambering?

The .308 Winchester cartridge is a versatile and widely respected round, making it a natural choice for the Remington Model 788. Its popularity stems from its excellent balance of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil. It’s suitable for a wide range of applications, from target shooting and hunting medium to large game, to law enforcement and military use. The .308 Win is known for its flat trajectory and its ability to deliver consistent performance at various ranges. This makes it a great pairing for the inherently accurate Remington 788.

The .308 Winchester is also readily available, with a vast selection of ammunition options to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for lightweight bullets for varmint hunting or heavy bullets for taking down larger game, you’ll find a .308 Win load that fits the bill. This versatility adds to the appeal of the Remington Model 788 in .308 Win, making it a practical choice for a variety of shooting scenarios.

Key Features of the Remington Model 788 .308 Win

Let’s take a closer look at the key features that define the Remington Model 788 .308 Win:

• Rear-Locking Bolt: The bolt locks at the rear of the receiver, providing a rigid and stable platform for enhanced accuracy.
• Short, Stiff Receiver: The receiver’s design contributes to the rifle’s overall accuracy and rigidity.
• Simple Trigger Mechanism: While not as refined as some triggers, the 788’s trigger is generally reliable and can be adjusted by a gunsmith.
• Detachable Magazine: The .308 Win version typically features a detachable magazine, allowing for quick and easy reloading.
• Walnut or Hardwood Stock: The stock is typically made of either walnut or hardwood, providing a comfortable and functional grip.

The Rear-Locking Bolt: The rear-locking bolt design is a defining characteristic of the Model 788. Unlike the front-locking bolts found on many other rifles, the 788’s bolt locks directly into the receiver behind the magazine well. This design minimizes flexing and vibration during firing, which contributes to improved accuracy. The bolt handle is typically turned down and located close to the stock, providing a comfortable grip. While some find the bolt action to be slightly less smooth than that of the Model 700, its functional benefits are undeniable.

The Stiff Receiver: The receiver is designed to be as rigid as possible, minimizing any movement or distortion during firing. This is achieved through a combination of its short length and its robust construction. The receiver also houses the trigger mechanism and the bolt assembly, providing a stable platform for these critical components. The stiffness of the receiver is a key factor in the 788’s accuracy potential.

The Detachable Magazine: The detachable magazine allows for quick and easy reloading, making the 788 a practical choice for hunting and target shooting. The magazine typically holds three or four rounds, depending on the specific model. The magazine release is usually located near the trigger guard, allowing for easy access. The detachable magazine is a convenient feature that enhances the rifle’s usability.

Advantages of Choosing the Remington Model 788 .308 Win

The Remington Model 788 .308 Win offers several distinct advantages:

• Exceptional Accuracy: Renowned for its accuracy, often rivaling more expensive rifles.
• Affordability: Provides excellent performance at a budget-friendly price point, especially on the used market.
• .308 Winchester Versatility: The .308 Win cartridge is suitable for a wide range of applications.
• Reliability: Known for its robust and dependable performance, even under demanding conditions.
• Availability of Parts: Although out of production, parts are generally available from various sources.

Accuracy That Surprises: The primary advantage of the Remington Model 788 .308 Win is its exceptional accuracy. Many owners report achieving sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) groups with carefully selected ammunition and proper shooting techniques. This level of accuracy is often unexpected in a rifle of this price range. The rear-locking bolt and stiff receiver contribute significantly to its accuracy potential. If you’re looking for a rifle that can deliver consistent and precise shots, the 788 is an excellent choice.

Cost-Effective Performance: The Remington Model 788 was designed to be an affordable alternative to the Model 700, and it has largely succeeded in that goal. Even on the used market, the 788 typically sells for significantly less than comparable rifles. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious shooters who don’t want to compromise on performance. You can often find a used 788 in good condition for a fraction of the cost of a new rifle with similar accuracy.

The Power of .308 Winchester: The .308 Winchester cartridge offers a versatile blend of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil. It’s suitable for a wide range of applications, from target shooting and varmint hunting to taking down larger game like deer and elk. The .308 Win is also a popular choice for law enforcement and military applications. Its flat trajectory and consistent performance make it a reliable round for various shooting scenarios. The combination of the 788’s accuracy and the .308 Win’s versatility makes for a potent and practical rifle.

A Balanced Review of the Remington Model 788 .308 Win

The Remington Model 788 .308 Win has earned a solid reputation for its accuracy and affordability. However, like any firearm, it has its strengths and weaknesses. This review provides a balanced perspective, highlighting both the pros and cons of this popular rifle.

User Experience and Usability: The 788 is generally considered to be a user-friendly rifle. Its simple design and straightforward operation make it easy to learn and use. The detachable magazine allows for quick and easy reloading, and the bolt action is relatively smooth, although not as refined as some higher-end rifles. The stock is typically comfortable to hold and provides a good grip. Overall, the 788 is a practical and easy-to-use rifle that is well-suited for both beginners and experienced shooters.

Performance and Effectiveness: The 788’s performance is largely defined by its exceptional accuracy. Many owners report achieving sub-MOA groups with carefully selected ammunition. This level of accuracy makes it a capable rifle for target shooting, varmint hunting, and even some types of big-game hunting. The .308 Win cartridge provides ample power for taking down medium to large game at reasonable ranges. The 788 is a reliable and effective rifle that delivers consistent performance.

Pros:

• Exceptional Accuracy: The 788 is known for its outstanding accuracy, often exceeding that of more expensive rifles.
• Affordable Price: The 788 is a budget-friendly option, especially on the used market.
• Reliable Performance: The 788 is generally considered to be a reliable and dependable rifle.
• Versatile .308 Win Cartridge: The .308 Win is suitable for a wide range of applications.
• Easy to Use: The 788 is simple to operate and maintain.

Cons:

• Aesthetics: The 788’s appearance is often considered to be less refined than that of other rifles.
• Bolt Action: The bolt action can be slightly less smooth than that of higher-end rifles.
• Availability: The 788 is no longer in production, so finding one in good condition can sometimes be challenging.
• Trigger: The trigger is simple and functional, but lacks the refinement of higher-end triggers.

Ideal User Profile: The Remington Model 788 .308 Win is an excellent choice for budget-conscious shooters who prioritize accuracy and reliability. It’s well-suited for target shooting, varmint hunting, and medium-game hunting. It’s also a good option for beginners who are looking for an affordable and easy-to-use rifle. However, those who prioritize aesthetics or require a highly refined trigger may want to consider other options.

Key Alternatives: Some popular alternatives to the Remington Model 788 include the Remington Model 700, the Savage 110, and the Winchester Model 70. The Model 700 is a higher-end rifle with a more refined design and a smoother action. The Savage 110 is known for its accuracy and affordability, similar to the 788. The Winchester Model 70 is a classic rifle with a long history of reliable performance.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation: The Remington Model 788 .308 Win is a highly capable and surprisingly accurate rifle that offers exceptional value for the money. While it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing or feature-rich rifle on the market, its performance speaks for itself. If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable rifle that can deliver consistent accuracy, the 788 is an excellent choice. We highly recommend it for budget-conscious shooters and those who prioritize function over form.

Continued Relevance and Legacy

The Remington Model 788 .308 Win remains a relevant and respected rifle in the firearms community, even decades after its production ceased. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its accuracy, reliability, and affordability. While newer rifles may offer more advanced features and modern designs, the 788 continues to hold its own as a capable and practical firearm. The Remington Model 788 .308 Win is a testament to the fact that performance and value can often outweigh aesthetics and marketing hype. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, the 788 offers a compelling combination of accuracy, reliability, and affordability that is hard to beat.

Have you had experience with the Remington Model 788 .308 Win? Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below. Your feedback helps other shooters make informed decisions. And if you’re considering purchasing a used Model 788, remember to inspect it carefully and have it checked by a qualified gunsmith.