The Remington 722, particularly in the potent .300 Savage cartridge, holds a special place in the hearts of many firearms enthusiasts. This article delves into the history, features, performance, and enduring appeal of this classic bolt-action rifle. We'll explore why the Remington 722 .300 Savage remains a sought-after firearm for hunting and collecting, even decades after its production ceased.
The Legacy of the Remington 722
The Remington Model 722, introduced in 1948, was a significant advancement in bolt-action rifle design. It built upon the success of its predecessors, incorporating features that improved accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. The 722 was known for its robust construction, smooth action, and readily available parts – a crucial factor for its popularity among hunters and shooters. Its design influenced many subsequent Remington rifles, solidifying its place in firearms history. The .300 Savage chambering, a powerful cartridge ideal for deer and other medium-sized game, further enhanced its appeal for hunters.
Key Features of the Remington 722 .300 Savage
- Bolt Action: The smooth, reliable bolt action is a hallmark of the Remington 722. Its design allows for quick and efficient reloading.
- Mauser-Inspired Action: The 722's action shares design elements with the renowned Mauser rifles, contributing to its robust and dependable operation.
- .300 Savage Cartridge: The .300 Savage offers a potent combination of accuracy and stopping power, making it well-suited for various hunting applications. Its trajectory is relatively flat, leading to more accurate shots at longer ranges than some other cartridges of its era.
- Durable Construction: The Remington 722 is built to withstand the rigors of hunting, featuring a solid receiver and a strong barrel.
- Available Variations: While the exact specifications varied depending on the year of production, various stock types and barrel lengths were available, offering hunters customization options to fit their needs.
Performance and Accuracy of the .300 Savage
The .300 Savage cartridge, with its relatively flat trajectory and substantial stopping power, made the Remington 722 a favorite among hunters. Several factors contribute to its accuracy:
- Cartridge Design: The .300 Savage's design results in predictable ballistics, allowing for accurate shots at considerable distances.
- Rifle Construction: The robust construction of the 722 itself helps maintain accuracy, ensuring consistent bullet placement shot after shot.
- Barrel Quality: The barrel's quality directly impacts accuracy. Remington rifles of this era were known for their precision-rifled barrels.
Table 1: Typical Ballistics for a 150-grain .300 Savage bullet
| Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) | Range (yards) |
|---|---|---|
| 2400 | 2200 | 100 |
| 2100 | 1700 | 200 |
| 1800 | 1300 | 300 |
(Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ammunition and barrel length.)
Hunting Applications of the Remington 722 in .300 Savage
The Remington 722 in .300 Savage is well-suited for hunting a wide variety of game:
- Deer: The .300 Savage is highly effective for deer hunting, delivering enough stopping power for clean kills.
- Hogs: Its stopping power also makes it effective against feral hogs.
- Black Bear (smaller): In suitable situations, it can also be utilized for hunting smaller black bears, although larger calibers are generally recommended for this type of game.
Collecting and the Value of a Remington 722 .300 Savage
The Remington 722 .300 Savage is increasingly sought after by collectors due to its historical significance and excellent performance. The value of these rifles varies based on condition, year of manufacture, and any unique features. Well-preserved examples in excellent condition command high prices in the collector's market. Online resources and gun auction sites can provide insight into current market values.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
The Remington 722 in .300 Savage represents a classic combination of robust construction, accurate performance, and historical significance. While no longer in production, its legacy lives on through its continued use by hunters and its high demand in the collector's market. Whether used for hunting or cherished as a piece of firearm history, the Remington 722 .300 Savage remains a testament to quality and enduring appeal. Its accuracy, reliability, and powerful cartridge make it a valuable asset, even today.