Remington 760 Gamemaster - All
10 Classic Hunting Rifles Every Hunter Should Own (Part 3)
8. Remington Model 760 Gamemaster
The 760 is a box magazine-fed pump-action with similar looks to Remington’s 870 and 1100 shotgun lines. It began production somewhere around 1952, and naturally became a very popular deer woods rifle.
Not a style of rifle that’s commonly associated with Alaska or western-style hunting, the Model 760 is a quick-pointing, quick-shooting bush rifle. It’s great for hunting in thick timber where shot distances are limited, but shots might be fleeting.
Model 760 Gamemaster in .30/06 would be a great for bear hunting over bait.
9. Browning BAR
Designed by Bruce Browning, grandson of John M. Browning, the sporting BAR is a semi-automatic hunting rifle that was introduced in 1968 and first produced in Belgium. It’s box magazine fed and features a hinged trap-door floorplate that’s opened to insert the magazine.
The BAR has been highly successful, and different models are still in production today—including variants with larger detachable magazines. It’s an elegant rifle and the older models are some of the finest-looking semi-automatic sporting rifles there are.
10. Weatherby Mark V
Among iconic names and brands in the firearms industry, Weatherby is one that continues to stand out. After outsourcing his actions and being unhappy with the coned Mauser actions that didn’t fully support the case head, Roy Weatherby set out to have a completely new action designed to handle his high-pressure, speedy cartridges.
The Mark V was introduced in 1957 and features a robust action that is the basis for many of Weatherby’s rifles even today. The basic Mark V action is heavy-duty and features full case support, nine locking lugs, and a short bolt throw.
Chambered in .300 Weatherby Magnum, you wouldn’t be under-powered to take on anything in North America—and much of the world with the Mark V.
Remington Firearms: From Forge to Legacy — A Complete History of America’s Oldest Gunmaker
For over two centuries, Remington has stood as a pillar of American firearms innovation, craftsmanship, and cultural identity. From its humble beginnings in a blacksmith’s forge to becoming one of the most recognized names in hunting, sport shooting, and military weaponry, Remington’s journey is a testament to resilience, ingenuity, and precision.
This comprehensive SEO article explores the history, evolution, iconic models, and modern relevance of the Remington brand — tailored for hunters, collectors, and shooting enthusiasts.
---
🔨 Origins: The Birth of a Gunmaking Dynasty (1816–1850s)
The story begins in 1816, when Eliphalet Remington II, a 23-year-old blacksmith from Ilion, New York, forged his first rifle barrel. Dissatisfied with the quality of store-bought firearms, he built a flintlock rifle that impressed local shooters at a competition. Orders poured in, and E. Remington & Sons was born.
Early Milestones:
• Specialized in rifle barrels, supplying gunsmiths across the Mohawk Valley.
• Moved operations to Ilion, NY — still home to Remington’s manufacturing today.
• Introduced standardized parts, pioneering interchangeable components in firearms.
---
⚔️ Expansion Through War and Innovation (1850s–1900s)
Remington’s reputation soared during the American Civil War, supplying the Union Army with revolvers and rifles. The Remington New Model Army Revolver became a staple sidearm, rivaling Colt in popularity.
Key Developments:
• Rolling Block Rifle (1866): A single-shot, breech-loading rifle adopted by militaries worldwide.
• Remington-Lee Bolt Action Rifle (1879): Introduced detachable box magazines.
• Double Derringer (1865): A compact .41 caliber pistol, iconic in Western lore.
By the late 1800s, Remington had become a global exporter, supplying firearms to France, Spain, Egypt, Denmark, and more.
---
🦌 The Rise of Sporting Arms (1900s–1950s)
As civilian demand grew, Remington shifted focus to hunting and sporting rifles. The early 20th century saw the birth of legendary models that would define American outdoor culture.
Iconic Models:
• Model 8 (1906): First successful semi-automatic rifle for hunting.
• Model 10 & 31 Shotguns: Early pump-action designs.
• Model 870 Wingmaster (1950): The best-selling pump-action shotgun in history, with over 11 million units sold.
• Model 700 (1962): A bolt-action rifle renowned for accuracy, used by hunters, law enforcement, and military snipers.
Remington also expanded into ammunition, merging with Union Metallic Cartridge Company (UMC) in 1912.
---
🪖 Military Contracts and Technological Growth (WWI–Cold War)
Remington played a vital role in both World Wars, producing:
• M1903A3 Springfield Rifles
• M1917 Enfield Rifles
• M24 Sniper Weapon System (based on Model 700)
During the Cold War, Remington continued to innovate with semi-automatic shotguns, synthetic stocks, and advanced ballistics.
---
💼 Corporate Changes and Challenges (1980s–2020)
Remington underwent several ownership changes:
• Acquired by DuPont in 1933
• Sold to Clayton, Dubilier & Rice in 1993
• Became part of Freedom Group under Cerberus Capital Management in 2007
Despite strong sales, the company faced financial difficulties, filing for bankruptcy in 2018 and again in 2020. Its assets were split:
• Remington Firearms → acquired by RemArms LLC
• Remington Ammunition → acquired by Vista Outdoor
---
🔫 Modern Remington: Innovation Meets Tradition (2021–Present)
Today, Remington continues to produce firearms under RemArms, focusing on:
• Model 700 Alpha 1: Enhanced bolt-action rifle with Timney trigger and 5R barrel.
• Model 870 Fieldmaster: Updated pump-action shotgun with synthetic and wood options.
• Versa Max & V3: Semi-automatic shotguns with VersaPort gas system.
• Model 783: Affordable bolt-action rifle for entry-level hunters.
Remington also reintroduced air rifles, expanded rimfire ammo, and launched new cleaning kits and accessories.
---
🗣️ Reviews and Reputation
✅ Pros:
• Legendary reliability and accuracy
• Wide range of models for hunting, sport, and defense
• Strong aftermarket support and customization
• Iconic American heritage
❌ Cons:
• Past quality concerns during ownership transitions
• Limited handgun offerings
• Brand fragmentation post-bankruptcy
Despite challenges, Remington remains a top choice for hunters and shooters who value tradition, performance, and versatility.
🧭 Conclusion: A Legacy Forged in Steel
From a single rifle barrel in 1816 to a global firearms legacy, Remington has shaped the way Americans hunt, shoot, and defend. Its name evokes precision, durability, and heritage — values that continue to resonate with shooters across generations.
Whether you’re a collector, competitive shooter, or hunter, Remington offers a firearm that fits your passion. And with new leadership under RemArms, the brand is poised to evolve while honoring its storied past.
Remington firearms history, Remington Model 700 review, Remington 870 shotgun, Remington hunting rifles, Remington bolt-action rifles, Remington gun brand, Remington Arms legacy, Remington Rolling Block, Remington bankruptcy 2020, RemArms LLC, Remington ammunition Vista Outdoor
Remington 1100 Sporting 12: A Classic Wing Shooter’s Choice
• Introduction: A Timeless American Semi-Auto
• Design & Modifications
• Operating System & Reliability
• Technical Specifications
• Ballistics & Effective Range
• Hunting Applications
• Price & Market Availability
• Pros & Cons from Real Users
• Why Shooters Still Choose the 1100 Sporting
• Final Verdict
🎯 Introduction: A Timeless American Semi-Auto
Few shotguns have earned the enduring respect of hunters and clay shooters like the Remington 1100 Sporting 12. Introduced in the 1960s and refined over decades, this gas-operated semi-automatic remains a favorite for its smooth recoil, classic styling, and field-tested reliability. Whether you’re breaking clays or flushing pheasants, the 1100 Sporting 12 delivers consistent performance with a touch of nostalgia.
🛠️ Design & Modifications Remington 1100 Sporting 12
The Sporting 12 is part of Remington’s Competition Series, tailored for sporting clays and light field use. Key design features include:
• Polished blued steel receiver with engraved “Sporting 12” script
• 28-inch light target contour barrel with vent rib and twin bead sights
• Semi-fancy American walnut stock with high-gloss finish and cut checkering
• Gold-plated trigger for visual contrast and smooth pull
• Sporting-style recoil pad for comfort during extended shooting sessions
• Four extended Rem Choke tubes: Skeet, Improved Cylinder, Light Modified, and Modified
While the stock lacks adjustability, aftermarket shims and recoil pads are available. Some shooters opt for custom-length stocks to improve fit.
⚙️ Operating System & Reliability
The 1100 Sporting 12 uses Remington’s gas-operated action, which:
• Reduces felt recoil significantly compared to inertia-driven systems
• Cycles smoothly with target and light field loads
• Requires regular cleaning to maintain reliability
The system is simple to maintain, with easily accessible gas ports and a straightforward valve assembly. While not as forgiving as newer designs like the VersaMax, the 1100’s action is time-tested and dependable when properly maintained.
📐 Technical Specifications Remington 1100 Sporting 12
• Gauge: 12 GA
• Chamber: 2¾” only (not compatible with 3” magnum shells)
• Barrel Length: 28”
• Overall Length: 47¾”
• Weight: Approx. 8 lbs
• Magazine Capacity: 4+1
• Length of Pull: 14”
• Drop at Comb: 1½”
• Drop at Heel: 2½”
• Finish: High polish blued steel with gloss walnut stock
• Sights: Twin bead (white front, silver mid-rib)
🚀 Ballistics & Effective Range
The Sporting 12 is optimized for target loads and light field loads. With proper choke selection:
• Effective range for upland birds: 30–45 yards
• Sporting clays: consistent breaks at 40+ yards
• Not recommended for heavy waterfowl loads or steel shot (due to chamber and barrel limitations)
Patterning is tight and consistent with lead shot. Users report excellent results with 1⅛ oz loads of #7½ or #8 shot.
🦃 Hunting Applications Remington 1100 Sporting 12
While designed for sporting clays, the 1100 Sporting 12 excels in:
• Upland bird hunting: pheasant, grouse, quail
• Dove and woodcock
• Light duck loads (non-toxic shot not recommended in this model)
• Small game: rabbits and squirrels with appropriate loads
Its smooth swing and moderate weight make it ideal for walked-up hunts and fast-moving targets.
💰 Price & Market Availability
Pricing varies by condition and configuration:
• New MSRP: ~$1,200–$1,300 USD
• Used models: $675–$900 USD depending on condition
• Premier and Nickel variants: $1,400+
• Aftermarket barrels and stocks: $150–$400
Availability may be limited due to production cycles. Check with Remington’s official site or major retailers like Sportsman’s Warehouse and Primary Arms.
✅ Pros & ❌ Cons from Real Users
Pros:
• Soft recoil and smooth cycling
• Beautiful wood and finish
• Reliable with target loads
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Excellent balance and swing for clays and upland birds
• Made in the USA
Cons:
• Only accepts 2¾” shells
• Not ideal for steel shot or magnum loads
• Stock lacks adjustability
• Trigger may feel heavy or “creepy” to some users
• Requires regular cleaning to maintain performance
• Slightly heavy for smaller shooters
🔎 Why Shooters Still Choose the 1100 Sporting
Despite newer models on the market, the 1100 Sporting 12 remains a go-to choice for shooters who value:
• Classic American craftsmanship
• Smooth recoil and handling
• Timeless aesthetics
• Proven reliability over decades
It’s a shotgun that feels right in the hands, points naturally, and performs consistently. For many, it’s not just a tool—it’s a tradition.
🏁 Final Verdict
The Remington 1100 Sporting 12 is more than a shotgun—it’s a legacy. With its elegant design, soft shooting characteristics, and dependable performance, it continues to earn its place among serious wing shooters and clay competitors. If you’re looking for a semi-auto that blends tradition with functionality, the 1100 Sporting 12 is a classic worth owning.
🔍 Frequently Asked Questions About Remington 1100 Sporting 12
1. Can the Remington 1100 Sporting 12 shoot 3” shells?
No. The Sporting 12 is chambered for 2¾” shells only. Attempting to use 3” magnum loads can damage the action and compromise safety.
2. Is the Remington 1100 Sporting 12 suitable for steel shot?
Not recommended. The barrel and gas system were designed for lead target loads. Using steel shot may cause excessive wear or damage unless specifically marked as steel-compatible.
3. Does the 1100 Sporting 12 have a self-adjusting gas system?
No. Unlike newer models like the VersaMax, the 1100 uses a fixed gas port system, which means it performs best with consistent target loads. Light or heavy loads may require tuning or may not cycle reliably.
4. How often should I replace the O-ring?
The gas system O-ring should be inspected regularly and replaced every 1,000–2,000 rounds, or sooner if signs
