I unfortunately had a 788 chambered in 6mm stolen out of my pickup in about 2003. I was so thoroughly heartbroken. I've since replaced it with another 788 in 6mm I found at an auction a few years back and I'm happy to say that my awesome and amazing wife just got me a 788 in .308 for Christmas today!! Two of my favorite calibers in my favorite underdog rifle! Great video!

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

Yay! Merry Christmas! - a 788 in .308 - wonderful present. Nice that you have the replacement 6mm as well.

I have a 788 in 6mm that my grandfather gave to me in early 70's when i started hunting. It is priceless to me.

Love my 788. It's a full length 308. I've owned it for 40 years.

@sierrapundit

2 жыл бұрын

I have a .233 bought circa 1980. It was an inexpensive weapon and looks it, but I handload and it's amazingly accurate. What else matters? I do wonder why more bolt actions don't feature detachable magazines and its 4-round magazine could be better.

@kenore4003

2 жыл бұрын

My brother had a .308 years ago We got ahold of some Military Match ammo. 168 grain bullet. That round was loaded to run M14, never shot anything that kicked so hard in that light little rifle.

I now own 4 of these fine classics and they are all shooters off the bench and in the field. I procured mine in the following calibers: 7mm08, .223Rem, 22-250, and .308Win. The .223 was mint and is my pick of the litter. You are right, these gems are no longer a secret and the price reflects this fact. Like you, I love the vintage stuff and "they don't make them like that anymore" mentality. Newer is not always better. Thanks for your always informative videos.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

That's fantastic Johnny. Not easy to find - especially the 08 or the .223. Come to think of it - they're all getting scarce. Not easy to find a better or more accurate rifle than a 788. I was looking at the 788 and some of the black budget rifles offered lately - no comparison and the 788 accuracy is legend. Well done finding 4!

@GregorsOutdoors

4 жыл бұрын

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Thanks! Always good to find another Remington 788 rifle aficionado! I actually stumbled upon one at a gun store quite by accident and an old-timer standing nearby offered his sage advice to buy it. From that point on I scoured online auctions and pawn shops and all in-between to gather these calibers. I must admit I'm envious of your two I don't have- the 44 and 30-30 would be awesome to own! Congrats on finding them!

My first centerfire Rifle was the 788 Carbine in .243. I still have her and for whitetail hunting, she is still my go-to gun. I have had Her now for 25 years. She has never failed me, misfired or jammed. She has always been around MOA with factory ammo. Hopefully one day she will be my son's first rifle, but it will be hard to give her up! Great gun.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

The 788 is hard to beat and I'm glad you have one and that it has served so well for so long. I have the identical rifle - remarkable accuracy.

According to their brochure in 1975 it was the fastest commercial cycling bolt in production.

Excellent description of the 788, well done! They truly are an underrated rifle, my wife has a 788 in .243, previously it was her dad's farm rifle. It is a real tack driver, although it doesn't seem to handle the same loads my rem 700 .243 can. I've found it likes 100gr projectiles with moderate loads and regularly shoots well under MOA without issue. It is super accurate, with mild recoil, a perfect rifle for her.

I posted this elsewhere. But Im going to do it again I feel that strongly about them. Rem 788 the hardest working utility rifle ever made . They were made economically and I believe Remington thought of them as a 10yr "throwaway" . Hahaha , they even rattle w/ an empty clip in when brand new . All that I own and have ever had were ALL tough in the field. Everyone a shooter . Easy to breakdown and work on even in hunting camp .

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

I agree. The 788 is one of those rifles that was visualized as something other than what it turned out to be. Except for the sometimes weak brazing on the bolt handle - the 788 is as good or better than many, if not most rifles out there. I have yet to see one that did not shoot - irrespective of cal. I had a dozen at one time - only have a lonely .243 left - and I know I can put that rifle in anyone's hands and they will hit with it, understand it, and recognize the value and strength in it - even if they don't know guns all that well. Actually - I now remember I have a custom .223 on the large action (strange) as well.

I have to agree with you again. The 788 was a super accurate rifle. I had one in 22-250 when I was a kid because that's what I could afford at the time I think I paid 219.99 brand new and it was one of the most accurate rifle's I've ever owned. I foolishly traded it in year's later on a fancier Remington 700 that never did shoot as good. I really enjoy your videos, it's great to see someone that really knows rifle's on here.

@JRCinKY

11 ай бұрын

THAT was a common mistake

I gave my 788 in .222 to my nephew. It shot dime sized groups with its favorite reloads.

Just bought a 788 308 carbine in excellent condition. It joins my Remington 540 X and 540 XR, single shot 22 target models with similar rear-lug design. 308 carbine was made in 1980, according to Wikipedia. Thanks for your video -- it peaked my interest in one.

My uncle always hunted with one of these in 6mm Remington. I've always liked the design because it's something "different" than the all too common Mauser 98 type actions.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

Scarce rifle in 6mm - and wonderful for whitetails.

Bought one in 1980 in 7mm 08. Was pretty much the only rifle I could afford at the time. As I remember it was very inexpensive. This gun still out shoots most of my other rifles. Unfortunately it is almost forgotten in the back of my safe. Your video has inspired me to get it out. Thanks.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

6 жыл бұрын

I'm glad. So much meaning in the back of my safe too.

@rider660r

5 жыл бұрын

Think my .243 was $83 or was it $183 new in '81 or '82 with a box of Federal 80gr. For years I thought of making my own thumbhole mannlicher stock for it.But mine is also collecting dust since back problems keep me out of the woods. With the reloads I worked up for it it was a 200/300/400 yd neck shooting SOB. Last couple weeks I been thinking of getting mine out and maybe making that stock. Thought about finding another in 243,7mm08,or 308 that the barrel is worn out on or pretty bad shape to make something out of it with a new barrel,trigger,etc.back then. Now the steam is rolling once again.

@alannapartin4728

3 жыл бұрын

get that to the front of the cabinet best caliber was the 7mm08 big bullet range and vld 284 bullets and more thump than 308 the 6mm was a close 2nd

I bought my son one in .222 nearly 40 years ago. His son now has it and is so proud of it! Great gun. New comer to your KZread channel. Need to know more about you and your background. You are very informative without a know it all attitude! Really enjoy watching! Thanks!

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Ken - A 788 in .222 - fantastic and now part of family history. I'm just a simple man; grew up here and there - always liked reading and studying everything actually, and thought sharing what I know might be interesting to people. Thank you for being here and all the best to you and your family. Stay safe.

Oh goodness!!! I had one in 22-250. One of my most accurate rifles. I would love to have it back. In later years of production, they came out in shorter barrels. If I remember correctly only the 222 and 22-250s came with the 24” barrel in the later manufacture years.I maybe wrong... I wanted to upgrade to and Model 700. The dealer ask me why I wanted to trade as the 788s were out shooting the 700s. Thank you for this review.

Great video. I had some 788s years ago, great shooting rifles. Just purchased one in .222 can't wait to shoot it once it arrives.

+USOG my father had a 222 and 22-250. He sold the 222 when I wasn’t looking but still has the 22-250. I love the 788’s. Thanks for the video.

Always the most informative gun videos on KZread. Straightforward, no nonsense, man I miss my 788. Unfortunately people seem to think that if a gun is old it's worth 20 times what it should.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Arthur - thank you so much. And yes - what happened to the values we used to have. The 788 is a gem of design and a lasting, reliable and accurate value. We should go back.

@arthurbradshaw7035

5 жыл бұрын

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns do you only review long guns? I dearly love revolvers, I have a Smith and wesson from the early 70's, a Colt vintage 1933,and a top break my grandfather gave me from around 1890. It's amazing to see the craftsmanship that went into them. I told you that I was looking into a budget coyote gun (Axis) but then I spied a nice Colt detective special, sooo.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

Good choice. The Colt DS is one of my favorites. I'm going to make some handgun videos soon. Have a nice weekend.

I have owned an early left hand 788 in .308 since the early 70's. I got it used for $100 with a no name scope. That old rifle will shoot cloverleaves at a 100 yards. One thing about the light barrel is it does heat up after several shots.

I got the itch a few years ago to get a Remington 788. I found several on Gunbroker, but one in particular that was listed by Guns America caught my eye. After contacting the seller we struck a deal and I bought it. When I recieved the little rifle, and I noticed that someone painted the stoch with brown paint, and the rciever and bolt were painted black. After I cleaned the stock and all metal surfaces, I was pleasantly surprized to see an American black walnut stock, and the blueing was still in good shape. I refinished the stock with Tru-oil, and the last few coats were wet sanded with 600 grit and hand rubbed with very thin coats of tru-oil. It turned out slick as a ribbon. According to the date of manufacture it is a first year model made in June of 1967. It is .in 222 Remington, a pleasure to shoot, and extremely accurate, printing tiny nickel sized groups at 100 yards. Nice video, and a compliment to a real workhorse of a rifle. Well done presentation.

I have a 788 in 308, I did shorten the barrel down to accommodate crawling through brush. with a 4x scope, it is still my favorite. (Second favorite is a 6.5x55 Swede Mauser.) I guess I am just a Luddite. the 788 is 46 years in my possession this year.

@bradmiller9993

2 жыл бұрын

I have a worked over 6.5x55 (Mannlicher?) that fits me perfectly and shoots perfectly. great cartridge.

I just got done cleaning my 788 in a 222 and I love it . It was my grandfathers . It shoots flat and it is beautiful

Mike I found a 788 in 44 Magnum. I had never actually seen one in the wild and was stunned to find one at auction here in Canada. I can't wait for delivery. It'll be reconditioned with a new Timney Trigger as this one has seized apparently. I'll check it out and clean it as they used a lithium grease in that trigger and it may have hardened. But regardless, easy to replace it required as I've done this before on my 788s. But truly lucky to ever find one. I've been looking for 30 years here in Canada and have never ever seen one. This video was a reminder what a great rifle these are. I've wanted one for deer hunting and really like that 44 magnum. Thanks for doing this way back when

A 788 in .222 was my 1st rifle and it didn't disappoint, affordable, accurate and functioned flawlessly.

I had a 788 in .222 that I foolishly sold a few years back. Have several newer 700's that are not as accurate. I've been on the hunt for another since, 1/2" groups all day! Live and learn! Great video.....as usuall!!! Thanks

@walleyewilly8085

3 жыл бұрын

There's a bunch of 788's on gun broker, Pricey though 500 to $700. They are worth every penny in my book.

@edprince9079

9 ай бұрын

A dealer not far from where I live had a few 788s. That is where I bought the one I now have,it is chambered for 22-250.

These are great rifles and excellent actions for a custom build.

I have two purchased in the 70s. I free floated/glass bed and put Canjar triggers on them. One is in 6mm and the other in 22-250. My family have to have shot a couple of dozen deer with the 6mm. Both shoot well under an inch with the right handloads. Back in the day they were frequently used for benchrest (with action sleeves) because of the fast lock time.

I've had mine in 243 since 77, I have taken many deer out at 375 yards, I just know where it's going to shoot!

A hunting buddy of mine has one in .308, I've seen him take the the head off a Rough Grouse at 50 yards I like the removable mag too

I worked logging 30 years ago for a old guy and when my wages amounted to 300 bucks he gave me a 788 in .308. In trade. My first deer rifle ,I was 15 years old. The rifle quickly became like a trusted old friend you'd never consider not grabbing it as your first choice no matter the task at hand. After the second day of fall deer season it resumed its place almost a natural extension of my arm . The 788 rifle survived a house fire and when I refinished that beach stock it turned out the nicest dark brown- gray that i could of hoped for. The smoke soot and water had washed into the stock as a dark stain. I took coyotes and dozens of whitetails with the 788. I have and have had dozens of rifles and shotguns and nothing compares to that 788' accuracy ,reliability, or vericitilty . A workhorse a saddle gun , truck gun and the first one I'd grab off the rack on any given day. Sadly due to politics at all levels and an unjust system where u don't have to brake the law or do anything wrong in order to have your rites trampled and private property seized, I no longer possess my favorite cherished Rem.model 788 .308. After reading this review and comments l am certain nothing will make me happier than to find a 788 to hang on the first rung of the rack and replace that old 788 that so comfortably felt such a part of me. Once you've had what is to u personally " the best " the rest just fall away when it comes to your reach for choice. Mine will always be a 788. .308.

.243 Remington Model 788 for 37 years now. Got it from Montgomery Ward when all of the Dept Stores stopped selling them (I guess not enough profit). Got mine for a little less than 300 bucks (closeout). Worried about the model that was going off while safety was engaged (allegedly) I researched to make sure my model was not one of them. Learning that the model 788 is so sought after, I now have realized how much they are worth. I can actually make my money back and a night at the movies. Been such a great, accurate rifle, I read that it is the nine locks makes it so accurate. My son, fixing to turn 18, has already claimed it (smart young man).

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Chris - great rifle, utility, great accuracy, great investment - you made the right purchase!

My second favorite rifle I bought mine new for less than $200 in 30-30 caliber. Very accurate out to 300 yards.

Another very good video. Wish I had one in 30-30.

I have the 788 in 7-08 carbine and 222 Remington in rifle barrel length. I like them both very much and accuracy is always excellent. I also have a Cooper 21 in 222 Remington and while the 788 isn't as accurate on a best day for each, the 788 shoots everything very well. From 45 to 55 grain bullets, and terrific with the Sierra 52 or 53 BTHP. If I absolutely had to hit a dime at 100 yds, I guess I'd use the Cooper. For anything else - the 788 works just fine. And it's just fun as heck to shoot.

Bought a Remington 788 .308 Win in 1982 for $200.00 brand new. Great shooting little carbine, very accurate wishing now I still had it.😢

Best .308 rifle I’ve ever had and still have outside the M-14. Superb accuracy.

I had mine since about 83 and it’s a 1978 production,Tac driver has never failed

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

2 жыл бұрын

You bet Ricky - they're like that.

The 788 is a fine functioning rifle and your review is up to its usual standard of excellence. E-mail me and we'll catch up. I had one of these in 6mm Remington.

@deniserogers7733

3 жыл бұрын

I have a 6mm what's it worth? Text 830- 563- 0946

What a great rifle! I wish they still made these! This rifle and the Savage 340 were perhaps the best "budget" rifles ever made. Both were known to be very accurate. TBH, they were better than many of the more expensive rifles. I hunted for decades with a friend that used a Model 788 in .243 for hunting our west Texas whitetails. At the time hinged floorplates with discrete releases and nice walnut stocks were all the rage. Box magazines which protruded, even a little, were considered cheap and ugly. The birch stock was plain and without any figure. Times have changed, detachable box magazines are "in" now, and no one wants a fancy walnut stock anymore...they want camo or black synthetic. Remington messed around with all sorts of "replacements" for the 788. Should have just stayed with the original. If the 788 was fitted with a composite stock, it would be as modern as tomorrow and probably half a pound lighter. (it wasn't a light rifle) If Remington made these again, chambered them in .243, .308, .223/5.56, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm-08 put a composite stock on it and sold it at the same price point as they did in the 70s (adjusted for inflation, of course) they would soon dominate the market.

@YourLocalR3NecK

6 ай бұрын

I always thought a proprietary box magazine for a hunting bolt action rifle was useless. They point of the hunting rifle is versatility, you got boolits and you got gun your good. An extra mag is just stupid and asinine I agree 👍🏻

@garyK.45ACP

6 ай бұрын

@@YourLocalR3NecK You have a point about the magazines. And for hunting, I never needed a quick change of magazine in over 50 years. It DOES make loading and unloading faster, which can be an issue if you have to get in and out of vehicles, cross fences or climb trees or into tower stands. But I never found that to be much of an issue for me.

@YourLocalR3NecK

6 ай бұрын

@@garyK.45ACP yeah that’s true they can be very quick and easy to use in certain cases. But for a hunting rifle (lever or bolt) I prefer an internal mag. Just one less part to lose, go wrong, or have to find more of. I just find the normal hunting situations to be most common for most folks

@garyK.45ACP

6 ай бұрын

@@YourLocalR3NecK Well, I guess I agree. My favorite hunting rifles are a Savage Model 99, a Ruger #1 single shot and several Ruger Model 77 rifles.

788s are great memory. I have never owned one but friends have. A new neighbor of mine collects them. He has every model made, including carbines and .44 Mag and .30-30.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

3 жыл бұрын

Lucky and determined collector! The 44 and 30-30 are so hard to find!

@walleyewilly8085

3 жыл бұрын

The 44 mag would make a fine black bear gun.

I wholeheartedly agree... My Dad & I had one apiece ... They were fine rifles that good the job done well...

You inspired me to buy a 788 in 22-250. I haven't had a chance to fire it yet so I'm keeping my fingers crossed and hoping it's as good of a shooter as I've heard. My stock looks like a factory stock, but it sure looks like Walnut instead of Beech, which is why I paid a little more than I really wanted to.

@allenroblin2372

2 жыл бұрын

Have had 788 in22/250 since 1974 still a tack driver. It still can shoot 1/2 moa at 100 yds & less than 1moa at 200 yds.The rifle is probably better than I can shoot at 72 yrs old.

Great video,I don't own a 788 but have had the prevalage to shoot 4 different guns a222,7mm08 308 243 all were excellent shooters to bad Remington doesn't really introduce it it will give any of the new rifles a run for thier money like you I think they feel good in your hands some folks say thier ugly ,not to me maybe Remington should have put a stock on them kind of like the 700 bdl. I did see a custom stock on one at a gun show ,looked real nice black grip cap and forever end cap and white spacers !

Have a cousin, that had one in .22-250. I'm guessing he bought it back in 1978 or 79 brand new. Only paid a little over 200 bucks. Super accurate rifle

I still have mine in .243, a Timney trigger solves everything . Awesome partner for many years .

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

Ahhhh...Timney - I have the exact same rifle but not the Timney - I'll get one. Thanks for writing.

@murrayandru7527

5 жыл бұрын

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Thanks for your videos!

@alannapartin4728

3 жыл бұрын

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns get 2 lb trigger you will love it in that gun... makes them 1/4 moa guns or better

I have a 788 in 6mm Remington. Super nice to shoot. Bought mine from a friend 20 years ago for $150 to shoot coyote. I never thought much about it but after reading here, thinking I got a sweet deal!!! 😃 Maybe he needed the cash?!. The metal and blueing is nice but stock needs re finished. It’s a sweet, easy, simple and accurate rifle. Hoping my son will take his first Muley with it soon. 6mm Remington Ammo is getting tough to find and expensive. $1.75/round!!

The .308 I owned years ago was at least as accurate as any Model 700 I have ever owned. When they were discontinued, the story in gun circles was that Remington was embarrassed that their budget bolt action was in general more accurate than their premium rifle. I tend to give this credence.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

I heard and witnessed the same thing. The 788 is superbly accurate across the many calibers I've owned.

@kimbiyah1

4 жыл бұрын

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns I have a 788 in 308 and I have heard the same thing from my Gunsmith

@yorktown2203

2 жыл бұрын

Yep , that’s the scuttlebutt...

Thank you for the video. Knowledgeable and well presented!

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you! So glad you are here. Merry Christmas!

I have a Marlin in .22 with the same wood stock. I stripped it, stained it(twice because first stain was not dark enough), refinish it, and hand checkered. In truth, way too much work for these kinds of guns, but it did look better.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

6 жыл бұрын

Hi Justin, We are on the same page. When I had no money I still knew guns and how to work on them. I refinished stocks and what have you. I never was happy with how the white wood stocks turned out. The factories have stain and lacquer in one spray. I had to stain and then match and some areas absorbed more stain etc... I'm sure you know it all too. Anyway, character building exercise. Have a nice weekend.

I had one in.222 Remington in the early 70s I traded it in for a .243 win because at the time I could only afford 1 rifle and I could hunt deer also with it. Now years later I wish I still had it.

@birddog7492

4 жыл бұрын

I have one in 222 I have killed dozens of deer with it. And used it for a varmint gun. It's one of the best dam riffle's ever made. I've shoot dimes with mine at fifty yards. My longest kill shot was at 275 yards on a running ground hog or what some people call a wood chuck. Darn good shooter. the only thing I don't like is the safety. it is to easy to swich from safe to fire.

I bought one in 223 last year. Have original owners manual. Also have the Remington sales catalog. In the catalog Remington claims that it is the fastest cycling bolt action currently being made. (1975.)

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

Awesome buy! Good on you. The .223 is hard to find.

I had one of those in 7mm08. Yes the bolt handle does break off. I repaired it. My repair method was much stronger than the original. Excellent shooter too. Unfortunately it was stolen. By the way the 788 was also offered in 30-30 win. I have one. It allows loading brass with pointed bullets. My favorite 30-30 at the range. Makes the 30-30 a 300 yard tack driver.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

The 788 30-30 owners club is a small club indeed; you are very fortunate - as you know. I've been looking for years - no success. So I bought a Savage 340 and pretend it is a 788. : )

@josecanisales3491

5 жыл бұрын

Me too, Mr USOG, I have a Savage 340 in 30-30 very accurate rifle.

That was my first deer rifle and I still have it. It's chambered in 6mm remington and very accurate.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

6 жыл бұрын

Glad you kept it! Scarce and excellent.

@jerrykemphfer9436

4 жыл бұрын

I have one 6mm left handed

@alannapartin4728

3 жыл бұрын

laser to 400 yds

I have been shooting my 788 in .243 with the short barrel since 1988. It has shot consistently since that time with shooting inside. 5 cent piece (sorry Aussie coin) at 200 metres. ,magnificence in its simplicity.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

Жыл бұрын

I agree DAZ - hard to beat the 788

I bought my 788 in 308 in 1978 after i got out of the service, it came with a tasco 4x scope, I still have this combo, I need to take it out of the safe and send some rounds down range!

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your service David 🙏 Your 788 is waiting for you - I'm sure.

I've heard it stretches the cases a little due to the rear locking lugs. But I agree, well worth picking up, if you can find one !

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 ай бұрын

I've heard that as well - I just neck size so don't notice anything. Phenomenal rifles.

You made a comment about stripping the finish and getting a pale or white stock that can't be refinished to look very good. The early 788s were sold with a walnut stock (I have one) and those stocks can easily be refinished and look great. After a few years of production Remington switched to a pale Birch stock, to save money, which was stained to look like walnut. To refinish those stocks you have to reapply a light walnut stain prior to applying the finish. I have used Birchwood Casey Tru-Oil with great results on both types of stocks.

I used to have a 788 in a 22-250. One of the most accurate rifles I've ever had. I've always regretted selling it.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

2 жыл бұрын

They're pretty amazing rifles - hope you get another.

I have a 788 in 222 love it. Reload 53 grain boat tail hollow points with 20 grains of reloaded 7 gun powder. 3 holes at 100 yes. touching one another.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

Awesome Lew - the 788 is legend. Glad you still have the .222 - many open theirs up to .223 - I still like the original. Thanks for the note.

They actually made these in 30-30 also. If you handload, and don't have tube magazine rifles laying around, you can load pointed bullets with a decent ballistic coefficient and stretch the range of the 30-30 out to about 300 yards for deer. More bullet selection than just 165 grain LeveRevolution. It's a great truck gun.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

6 жыл бұрын

I wish I could find one - and the 30-30 is a fantastic round - you are so right; the pointed bullets are the ticket. Those 788s - so fine!

In 1978 you could buy the 788 new with a cheap scope for $125.00 at Woolco down here in TX. I bought my Rem 700 ADL for $188.00 instead because I wanted a .30-06. Years later, I got a 788 in payment for a job I had performed. It is in .222 and one of my favorite and most accurate rifles.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

Жыл бұрын

Amazing! They keep printing money so things may double - even from where we are now. Great choice of guns!

I had one I bought in the early 80s in 243. I put a cheap Bushnell 3 X 9 scope on it and could never get the scope reticles to align with where it wanted to shoot. It shot high and I ran out of adjustment. I also couldn't find a load that shot better than 2 MOA with it. It also had a bad habit of going off safe when carried in the woods. I finally put a 2x 7 Japanese Tasco scope on it and use it to this day for deer/coyote with factory ammo. I tried free floating and never got it to shoot to my satisfaction.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

I hear you - sometimes things go wrong - who knows why...glad you get use out of it. Maybe buy another if you come across one cheap. Just an idea.

Biggest problem in the rimless calibers is the “finger nail” extractor. Improper sized reloads can make it hard on them and replacements may be non existent. Hammering on bolt to remove stuck case can break handle brazed joint. Use caution in reloading. A wonderful rifle!

My dad has a 788 in 22-250 that looks like it’s straight out of the 70’s. But he swears up and down that it’s the most accurate rifle he has ever shot. Better than anything on the market now. I’ll definitely be putting that to the test lol

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Adam - most likely your dad is right. Those 788s can be scary accurate - and in 22-250 - probably one hole at 100.

Got one in .222 Remington back in '93. Traded with my dad for it. Love it. Done quite a bit of custom stock work to it. Reshaped pistol grip to be more European in style, tapered trigger guard OD radius and cold blued (still holding up), stripped and custom anniline dye stained stock. and cut veneer inlays to depict a triple deuce card hand in the buttstock (different woods used on each side). Cut forend tip off and attached rosewood/ebony tip. Flared rosewood pistol grip cap also attached. WAY more customization invested (luckily all labor) than the perceived value of the 788. My recommendation is IF you can get your hands on one of these DO IT!. Don't know how or why but these rifles are shooters!

@bmillslakerfan24

2 жыл бұрын

I would love to see a picture of the work you did to your stock! I recently took my .308 apart to refinish the stock and I'm scratching my head with what to do to the beech wood. I was thinking maybe a cerused black with white grain, but not sure how that would turn out and how the India ink would work with the beech wood. Let me know if you have a picture of yours I can see!

I have one that my dad left me in .223 that has never been fired.He bought in in 1975(only year it was made in that cal.),mint condition.I was with him when he bought it.At the same time i bought one in 22-250,excellent rifle,sadly i don't have mine anymore.Thanks for the video.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

That is an extremely sought after gem! Glad you have it!

Very interesting. Who knew it was a distant cousin of the Weatherby? Nine lug bolt can't be a bad thing. Going to look for one now.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Freddy - I like the 788 as you can tell and there is no need for a 9 lug front locking bolt action - the Mauser does everything that needs to be done with 2. IMHO

The 6mm Remington model 788 is going to be my first real hunting rifle

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

You will do well my friend.

@deniserogers7733

3 жыл бұрын

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns have a 788 6mm. What's it worth ?

Thanks for the video. Ever since i was a kid (i'm now approaching 50) there has been something about the shape and looks of the 788 and it's rimfire cousin the 741 that just appeals to me somehow. I finally aquired one last year when i bought a .222 in rough condition as a restoration project. I sanded the stock back and used Birchwood Casey True Oil and personally i think it's a rifle that looks great with a blonde stock. The 788 was renowned for it's accuracy and that .222 was no different. Despite it's age and rough condition it still shot ragged one hole groups. They were available in .222, .223, .30-30, .44 Mag, 22-250, .243, 7mm-08 & .308. I hope to one day find one in .30-30 but i don't know if any were imported here in Australia.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

6 жыл бұрын

Hi Michael, The 788 is an unsung hero - a rigid action and supremely accurate rifle. You probably have the best cal. In .222 the 788 is as good as it gets. I have a mag for a 44 Magnum 788 - I'll have to check. With the rear locking lugs they could chamber rimmed cartridges. Great design.

@PAIN565

5 жыл бұрын

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns It also comes chambered in 6MM which is the caliber of the Model 788 my grandfather gave to me.

These rifles were made from 1967-1983..I just acquired my dads 788 44 magnum..it’s a very rare rifle as it was only made in 1967.he bought it in 1971 for $75.I never once seen him shoot it.

great video 788 tremendous for the $$$

I had a Remington 541-T in 22LR that uses the same action and bolt that was easily competition accurate. Maybe the most stout 22LR action ever built.

Got two. 22-250 and .308 Carbine. They work.

My father bought one for me in 243 in 1975, the year I was born. It'll shoot 1 inch groups at 100 yards all day.

Kind of looks like my sportsman 78. Awesome video

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Ricky - Your Sportsman 78 is one of my favorite versions of the 700 - so clean and uncluttered.

@rickybristersmusic3658

4 жыл бұрын

USOG yes sir. I agree. Hope to take a deer with my 270 this year.

@johnowen7845

3 жыл бұрын

@USOG I haven't been able to find a video dedicated to the 78 sportsman. Would you be able to make one?

I hadn't realized you made this video. I have one in 308 as well that I got for free. Someone had burned holes into the stock and glued military buttons into it (Bubba gun) so I was embarrassed to carry it until I added a Boyds stock. I hunted wild pigs with it for years. Deadly accurate, reliable firearm. The magazine is a bit noisy but a piece of cardboard will fix that. I heard they discontinued it because it was out shooting the model 700's and hurting sales. Mine sits in the back of the gun safe now but I'm sure a grandchild will carry it one day. It would be cool if they sold the design to a small company

I’m always on look out for a left handed 788 in 6mm. There’s rarely more than 5 on gunbroker at anytime so they end up going for crazy prices

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Gage - I wish I had a solution - there are so few just as you say. I usually just keep looking and waiting and eventually do find the item. Sometimes it takes a long time. I suppose it is a bit like hunting.

Love this rifle...

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

6 жыл бұрын

They are great Art.

The early ones had walnut stocks. I can’t remember off the top of my head when they switched to the cheaper hardwood stocks.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Jeff! You made my heart skip a beat haha! I have to find one! Always wondered why they used birch or beech or whatever it is - these fine rifles deserve walnut. Thank you for telling me!

@shelbyflf

4 жыл бұрын

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns I have a 1972 model year in .308 with the walnut stock and Leopold scope .

@paulhaines4818

3 жыл бұрын

A friend of mine has one in a walnut stock . A 222

Bought one in .222, shot a 52gr. Match hollowpoint reload. Took a lot of groundhogs with it. Also reloaded 40 gr. Lead bullets that I liaded dkwn and used it for squirrel hunting. I now have one in 22-250.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

9 ай бұрын

Just about ideal - the 788 remains in demand; for people who know

Sorry to be commenting on this so long after the original post. I don't know if you will see it. I bought a 788 in .44 magnum in 1968. It's the most accurate 44 I've ever shot but pretty heavy for that caliber. They only made the 788 in rimmed cartridges (44 and 30-30) for a couple of years I think when it was first introduced. I have an old Weaver V4.5 on it.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

You won the lottery! So many looking for the 44 Mag! Good on you.

I read, years ago, bench rest shooters were using that action finding it more accurate due to the one piece or solid action? Thanks for hi lighting some of these rifles. They are plain Jane but we've all either had or wished we had these guns at one time or another. It's good to here your expert opinion.

I've had Rem 788 for 40 years and have never had the bolt handle brake off. Lucky I guess.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

These are great rifles - most people agree; and even the bolt handle isn't perfect - nothing is : )

I remember the 788 at $169 around 1984...

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

Those were the days my friend - just like the Mark Hopkin song says.

I just picked up a beautiful 30-30

I'm the lucky one. I have all the 788's except the 44 mag. To expensive for my blood. I also have all the .22 line as 580, 581, 581s and the 590 in 5mm mag. I love the 788 and don't plan on getting rid of them at this point.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

You are lucky indeed - no one I know has the works as you do - and I know what you mean about the 44 - so scarce and expensive; on the other hand - they don't go down in value. Cheers!

I bought my first rifle today. A 788 in .222. I looked up the serial number date codes and I believe mine was manufactured in 1982. I had spent weeks researching a great .22 rifle for a beginner shooter. I’ve watched most of your videos and came across this one and remembered seeing a local hunting shop had a used 788 for sale. I did a bit more research on the gun and decided to buy it ($500 CAD). I’m new to the rifle world and am learning more every day. What seems to be a consistent opinion is that “they don’t make them like they used to”, which I suppose I am betting on being true with my first purchase. The stock is pretty beat up and I’d like to refinish it. Do you have any tips or recommendations? Thanks for the videos. I appreciate how informative they are and really am enjoying learning from you!

Yes I had 3 of them 222 243 22-250

Just grabbed one of these in 308 for $200 CAD. Unbelievably accurate for being older than I am. The stock looks beautiful and just feels well built compared to half the rifles I've handled. Definitely a keeper for the collection. Thank you for the video!

I’ve carried this gun for decades. It’s heavy, the mag protrudes, and the safety is relatively easy to bump off. (I just walk with my thumb on it, and check it a lot if on my back) But man, does that gun shoot. Never once failed to feed. I’ve shot groups at 100 where the bullet holes all touched. Love that gun. Sure wish my stock still looked like yours......

My 788 in a 308cal. Brand New was $110.00 in 1973

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

Excellent buy then and they remain excellent buys now if in decent shape - I see them change hands between $550. and $800. - you did well and had a fine rifle for years.

@JWalshMovies

4 жыл бұрын

My dad bought his new in 1973 in .308 out of a Sears catalog I believe. It was the gun I was always fascinated growing up looking at tucked safe away. I have it now. Still shoots great! I'm 33.

Had one in .308. In hindsight I should have kept it.

@donnierobinson2501

3 жыл бұрын

I still have mine and shoots great it's a lh model 308 caliber.

Help me out with the manufacturer date of my Remington 788 in 243 Winchester. The barrel stamp letters RS tell me 1969... but the serial number is hard to find the year... The serial number is 60***** It's kinda confusing... Is it from Nov 1969?

I've owned several, the best shooting factory rifle I ever fired. They aren't "cheap" anymore, I sold one for $ 650 and I saw one today asking $ 700.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

3 жыл бұрын

That's true - value is recognized in the market. Sometimes it takes a little time.

Best rifle that out beats the 700 model... I have one in 308 and the other Two was 222 and 243 that I've seen only. Because of the trigger recall and out shoots the 700 for being a beginner or begged rifle Remington stopped the sale... It matches my Ruger M77 MK II even though they are two different brands and maker it's beautiful having both side by side

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

5 жыл бұрын

The 788 is a magic rifle.

Love my 788 in .222rem.

my brother was always the type of guy that always needed money so when he was broke he would sell his guns, so come around hunting season he would get the erg to go hunting and wouldn't have a rifle, these 788 Remington's would always be his choice lol back in the 80's l think you could get one for about 180 dallars, since we hunted deer and elk he would try to get one in a 308 but one year all he could find was a 7mm o8 he killed a huge 6 point bull elk with that little 7mm that year lol, you could get these with a 22 Inch barrel or a carbine with a 18 in barrel neat basic hunting rifles that got the job done.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

4 жыл бұрын

Great note Greg - I was a lot like that; sometimes no boots even. The good news is that as inexpensive as the 788 was - it was and is one of the best rifles. Your brother did well! Hope you still hunt together.

I have a Mossberg 800a in .308 how can i tell what year it was made? Very few marking on rifle.

@UnitedStatesOfGuns

6 жыл бұрын

Hi Svern, Please check here mossbergowners.com/forum/index.php?threads/mossberg-serial-number-data-base.13187/ The year of production won't change the value much as the production life was fairly tight - about 1967 to 1979. Excellent rifle BTW.

my 6mm 788 with a 2 lb timney trigger shoots 103 grain ELDX into .313" total hole size for 5 shots at 100 yds... its far more accurate than any other gun i own... will never part with it... when it wears out spin on new barrel and go

I have one in 22-250 and it's in mint shape .