The Remington 700 rifle, a popular choice among hunters and sport shooters for decades, has unfortunately been associated with significant safety concerns, primarily revolving around its firing pin safety mechanism. This article delves into the history of these issues, the resulting lawsuits, and the subsequent improvements made by Remington (prior to its bankruptcy and sale). Understanding these issues is crucial for anyone owning or considering owning a Remington 700.
The Problem: Unintended Discharge
The central safety issue with certain Remington 700 rifles lies in the potential for an unintended discharge, even when the rifle is seemingly unloaded and the safety is engaged. This stems from a flaw in the design of the firing pin safety, specifically in how the firing pin interacts with the sear. In affected models, the firing pin could, under certain circumstances, slip forward and strike the primer, causing the cartridge to fire unexpectedly. This could occur due to jarring, dropping the rifle, or even improper handling.
Specific Models Affected
While not all Remington 700 rifles were affected, the problem primarily centered around models manufactured before 2014. Remington implemented design changes after numerous lawsuits and investigations, aiming to address the fundamental flaw. Identifying precisely which models were affected requires careful examination of the rifle's serial number and potentially consulting Remington's recall information (though accessing this directly from the original manufacturer is no longer possible).
The Lawsuits and Recall
The potential for unintended discharge resulted in numerous lawsuits against Remington Arms. These cases often involved serious injuries or fatalities, significantly impacting the company's reputation. The lawsuits ultimately led Remington to initiate a voluntary recall and implement changes to the firing pin safety mechanism in newer models. While the recall aimed to mitigate the risk, the legal battles and their financial ramifications played a significant role in Remington's eventual bankruptcy.
Remington's Response and Design Changes
Following the significant legal pressure and public outcry, Remington implemented changes to their firing pin safety mechanism. These changes aimed to eliminate the potential for the firing pin to slip forward unintentionally. The modified design incorporated a new, stronger sear engagement and other improvements designed to prevent accidental discharge. However, it's vital to understand that even with these improvements, responsible gun handling practices remain paramount.
Responsible Gun Ownership: Prevention is Key
Regardless of the rifle's model or manufacturer, responsible gun ownership is paramount. This includes:
- Regular Inspection: Regularly inspecting your rifle for any signs of damage or wear is crucial.
- Proper Cleaning and Maintenance: Maintaining your firearm in top condition reduces the likelihood of malfunctions.
- Safe Handling Practices: Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded, regardless of whether you believe it to be unloaded. Never point a firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot.
- Professional Gunsmithing: If you have concerns about the safety of your Remington 700, consult a qualified and reputable gunsmith for an inspection and potential modifications.
Conclusion: Informed Ownership is Crucial
The Remington 700 safety issues highlight the critical importance of understanding the potential risks associated with any firearm, regardless of its reputation or popularity. Responsible ownership involves staying informed about potential safety concerns, understanding the history of the firearm, and implementing safe handling practices. If you own a Remington 700, researching the specific model and its manufacturing date is crucial to determine if it falls under any previous recall or safety advisories. Always prioritize safety and responsible gun handling practices.
