A Look Back: The Remington 600’s Foundation
Design and Features
The sharp crack of a high-powered rifle echoing through the timber. The satisfying thump as a large game animal succumbs to a well-placed shot. These experiences define the essence of big-game hunting, and the Remington 600 .350 Magnum, though a bit of a rarity these days, embodies a unique combination of power and packability. This article delves into the history, design, and performance of this distinctive rifle, exploring why it has garnered a devoted following among hunters who appreciate the allure of a compact, hard-hitting firearm.
Production Run and Variants
The Remington 600 rifle, born in the early nineteen-sixties, arrived on the scene as a bold step into the future of firearms. Departing from some of the more traditional designs of the era, this rifle immediately established itself as a modern firearm. Its most recognizable feature, the ventilated rib atop the barrel, gave it a distinct visual character. This design wasn’t just for aesthetics; it also helped dissipate heat during extended shooting, improving barrel life and potentially accuracy.
Popularity and Legacy
The heart of the Remington 600 was a short-action bolt, contributing significantly to its compact overall profile. This short action facilitated rapid cycling of rounds, a valuable asset for follow-up shots in challenging hunting situations. The stock design, with its distinctive dog-leg shape and often a sleek profile, enhanced the rifle’s ergonomics and contributed to its lightweight feel. This lightweight construction was intentional, making the Remington 600 easy to carry through dense brush or across rugged terrain.
Throughout its production run, the Remington 600 rifle was offered in a variety of calibers. While the .308 Winchester and .222 Remington were popular choices, the .350 Remington Magnum, a cartridge with a reputation for serious stopping power, found a perfect pairing with the compact frame.
The Remington 600 ultimately garnered widespread appreciation among hunters seeking a reliable, accurate, and maneuverable rifle. Its popularity stemmed not only from its performance but also from its innovative design. It embodied a forward-thinking approach to rifle manufacturing, making it a symbol of the modern hunting rifle at the time. The Remington 600 wasn’t just a rifle; it was a statement.
Exploring the .350 Remington Magnum Cartridge
Origins and Development
To fully understand the appeal of the Remington 600 .350 Magnum, it’s crucial to examine the .350 Remington Magnum cartridge itself. This round, a brainchild of Remington Arms, was designed to deliver impressive power from a compact, short-action rifle. The goal was to provide big-game hunters with a cartridge that offered flat trajectories and substantial downrange energy, even within the constraints of a smaller firearm.
Ballistics and Performance
The .350 Remington Magnum, as a cartridge, achieved its initial purpose. It fired .35-caliber bullets, typically weighing between two-hundred and twenty-five and two-hundred and fifty grains, at impressive velocities. This combination translated into devastating stopping power, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of North American game.
The ballistics of the .350 Remington Magnum were impressive for its era. Expecting a flat trajectory for the bullet made for extended shots at target. The energy delivered to the target was significant, translating into clean, efficient kills. Its effective range was typically good for situations where the shooter needed to connect at a distance.
Applications
The applications of the .350 Remington Magnum are broad. It is suitable for hunting a wide variety of big game, from black bears and elk to larger deer species, making it a versatile choice for hunters. Its power and effectiveness also make it a viable option for dangerous game, such as large wild boars, in certain environments.
A Harmonious Union: The Remington 600 and the .350 Remington Magnum
Pairing the Cartridge and Rifle
The decision to pair the .350 Remington Magnum with the Remington 600 was a strategic move, creating a rifle that offered the best of both worlds. The power of the .350 Rem Mag, combined with the relatively compact size of the 600, resulted in a truly unique hunting package.
Key Features and Modifications
The .350 Remington Magnum model didn’t feature many variations from the standard 600 design. The primary adjustment was in the barrel, appropriately designed to handle the pressures of the magnum cartridge. The combination created a rifle capable of taking down large game while maintaining exceptional portability.
Shooting Experience and Accuracy
Shooting a Remington 600 in .350 Remington Magnum offers a memorable experience. The recoil, while substantial, is manageable due to the rifle’s weight and stock design. The rifle generally provides very good accuracy. The combination of a hard-hitting cartridge and a relatively accurate rifle makes it an effective choice for serious hunting applications.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages of the Remington 600 .350 Magnum
Like any firearm, the Remington 600 .350 Magnum presents a mix of advantages and disadvantages that a prospective owner should consider.
One of the primary advantages of the Remington 600 .350 Magnum is its compact size. This is particularly important for hunters who frequent dense forests, wooded areas, or rugged terrains where maneuverability is paramount. The power of the .350 Rem Mag speaks for itself, providing the necessary energy for taking down large game at reasonable distances. The rifle’s lightweight design also enhances portability, reducing fatigue during long hunts. Finally, when available in the used market, the Remington 600 .350 Magnum can often be found at a reasonable price.
Disadvantages of the Remington 600 .350 Magnum
However, the Remington 600 .350 Magnum isn’t without its downsides. The recoil generated by the cartridge can be significant, especially for shooters who are not accustomed to high-powered rifles. The rifle’s magazine capacity is limited. Also, the Remington 600 .350 Magnum is no longer in production, making it challenging to find, and prices can vary considerably based on condition.
Drawing Comparisons: Related Rifles
Compare to Similar Rifles
Comparing the Remington 600 .350 Magnum to other rifles helps highlight its unique characteristics.
Several other models from Remington, such as the Model Seven, were chambered in the .350 Remington Magnum. However, these generally lacked the distinctive aesthetic of the 600, as well as the same kind of historical draw. It’s interesting to note how similar the design between the rifles can be.
Many other rifles in similar calibers, like the .338 Winchester Magnum or even the .30-06, offer comparable power. However, these rifles are frequently larger, and may not be as well-suited for hunters seeking a compact and maneuverable firearm.
Taking Care: Ownership and Maintenance
Finding One in the Market
Owning a Remington 600 .350 Magnum involves a certain level of responsibility. The rifle, like any vintage firearm, requires regular care and maintenance to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
Finding a Remington 600 .350 Magnum can be difficult, as they are no longer manufactured. The used market is the primary source.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Cleaning and maintenance are essential for any firearm. After each use, the barrel should be thoroughly cleaned. Regular lubrication is crucial to protect the rifle’s metal components from rust and corrosion. Inspecting the rifle for any signs of wear or damage is also crucial.
Important Considerations for Safe Usage
Above all, safe handling practices are essential. Always treat the firearm as if it is loaded, and always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
Closing Thoughts
The Remington 600 .350 Magnum represents a unique chapter in the history of hunting rifles. It combined the formidable power of the .350 Remington Magnum cartridge with a compact, lightweight, and innovative platform. It offered hunters a compelling combination of power and portability, making it a favored choice for those seeking a hard-hitting rifle that was also easy to carry through a variety of hunting environments.
The Remington 600 .350 Magnum’s legacy continues to inspire. While no longer in production, it remains a sought-after rifle among collectors and hunters. Its distinctive design, impressive performance, and unique place in firearms history solidified its reputation. It is, in many ways, a testament to the ingenuity of gunsmiths, and to hunters who appreciate the value of a well-designed, purpose-built firearm.
