Introduction
In the world of firearms, the .22 Long Rifle, or .22lr, stands as a cornerstone of recreational shooting, plinking, small game hunting, and even introductory marksmanship. The appeal is undeniable: low recoil, affordable ammunition, and a wide range of firearms chambered for the cartridge. When it comes to semi-automatic .22lr rifles, the market is competitive, but one rifle consistently holds a prominent place: the Remington 597. This article will delve deep into the world of the Remington 597 .22lr semi auto rifle, providing a comprehensive review that covers its history, features, performance, and how it stacks up against its rivals. Whether you are a seasoned shooter, a first-time gun buyer, or just curious, this review will give you the knowledge you need to decide if the Remington 597 is the right choice for you.
Unveiling the Remington 597
Before diving into specifics, let’s take a brief look at the Remington 597’s origin. Introduced to the market, this rifle quickly gained recognition for its unique design and, at the time, innovative features. The 597 was Remington’s answer to the popular Ruger 10/22, designed to compete in a crowded marketplace. The focus was on creating a semi-automatic .22lr that offered a step up in certain areas of performance and design. Remington brought a different approach to several key components of the rifle.
Features and Design – Beyond the Basics
The Remington 597’s design incorporates several features that set it apart from the competition. Let’s examine these features in more detail.
The Receiver: The Rifle’s Backbone
The receiver, the heart of the rifle where the action takes place, is a key element in the 597’s design. Constructed primarily from aluminum, the receiver provides a strong and lightweight platform for the action. The choice of aluminum helps keep the rifle’s overall weight down, which is an advantage for users. The receiver is designed to be durable, able to withstand the stresses of repeated firing and normal handling.
The Barrel: Where Accuracy Begins
The barrel is a crucial component for accuracy. The Remington 597 typically features a barrel made of steel, chosen for its durability and ability to withstand the wear and tear associated with high-volume shooting. Different barrel lengths have been available over the years, impacting the overall length and balance of the rifle. The rifling within the barrel is engineered to impart a spin on the bullet, stabilizing it in flight and promoting accuracy. The quality of the barrel is a significant factor in the rifle’s ability to group shots tightly at various distances.
The Stock: Comfort and Control
The stock of the Remington 597 generally comes in two primary materials: synthetic polymer. The polymer stocks are appreciated for their resistance to the elements and their ability to withstand rough handling. The design of the stock plays a crucial role in the overall ergonomics of the rifle. The shape, the length of pull, and the texture all contribute to how comfortable the rifle is to hold, shoulder, and shoot. The stock is designed to fit a wide range of shooters and promotes accurate shooting.
The Trigger: The Connection Between Shooter and Shot
The trigger mechanism is another important design element. The trigger pull weight and feel can vary somewhat from rifle to rifle and the trigger can be upgraded. The quality of the trigger significantly impacts the rifle’s accuracy potential. A crisp and light trigger pull allows for more precise shot placement. Many shooters consider this a key area to improve upon if they are serious about maximizing the rifle’s accuracy.
Sights: Aiming for Success
The Remington 597 generally comes with either iron sights or a receiver drilled and tapped to accept optics, which makes it very easy to mount a scope for increased accuracy. The iron sights typically consist of a front post and a rear adjustable sight. While iron sights are functional, many users will mount an optic for better accuracy. A scope allows for more precise aiming, especially at longer ranges, and improves the shooter’s ability to see the target clearly.
The Magazine: Fueling the Fun
The magazine is the component that holds the ammunition. The standard magazine for the 597 holds a good number of rounds, allowing for extended periods of shooting without frequent reloads. The magazine is generally made of a durable material and is designed for ease of insertion and removal. A well-designed magazine is crucial for reliable feeding.
Action and Mechanics: Understanding the Heartbeat
The semi-automatic action is what makes this rifle so appealing to many shooters. The 597 operates using a blowback action, which is common in .22lr semi-automatic rifles. When the rifle is fired, the expanding gases from the ignited propellant push the bullet down the barrel. At the same time, the cartridge case moves rearward, pushing against the bolt. This action cycles the bolt, extracting the spent casing, and chambering a fresh round from the magazine. This cycle is a fundamental design element of the 597, allowing for rapid firing.
Performance Assessment: Putting the 597 to the Test
Evaluating a firearm requires assessing its performance in several key areas.
Accuracy in Focus
The Remington 597 is generally capable of excellent accuracy. The consistency of shot placement depends on several factors, including the quality of the ammunition, the shooter’s skill, and the optics used. With quality ammunition and a competent shooter, the 597 is usually able to group shots tightly at 50 yards and even hold its own at 100 yards. Accuracy is one of the strong points for this rifle, making it enjoyable for target shooting and plinking.
Reliability: Is it a Workhorse?
Reliability is another key characteristic of a rifle. In general, the Remington 597 has a strong reputation for reliability. However, like any semi-automatic firearm, it can experience occasional malfunctions. Feeding, extraction, and ejection are the key areas to evaluate. The design incorporates features that promote smooth and reliable operation. It’s important to regularly clean and maintain the rifle.
Handling the Recoil
Recoil from a .22lr is very light, making it easy for shooters of all ages and experience levels to control. The low recoil makes the 597 a great choice for beginners and those who want to enjoy hours of shooting without fatigue. The ergonomics of the stock and the overall balance of the rifle contribute to a comfortable shooting experience.
Examining the Advantages and Disadvantages
Every firearm has its strengths and weaknesses. The 597 is no exception.
The Good Points
- Affordability is a major selling point. The 597 is typically available at a reasonable price point, making it accessible to many shooters.
- Accuracy potential. As mentioned previously, the rifle is capable of excellent accuracy with the right ammunition and a skilled shooter.
- Ease of use. The controls are generally straightforward, and the rifle is easy to operate and handle.
- Fun factor. Low recoil and the semi-automatic action combine to make it a fun and enjoyable rifle to shoot.
Areas for Consideration
- Potential for malfunctions. While generally reliable, the 597 can occasionally experience malfunctions, such as failure to feed or failure to eject.
- Aftermarket support. The aftermarket for the 597 isn’t quite as extensive as that for the Ruger 10/22.
- The original guide rods can have issues.
How Does It Stack Up? A Comparison with its Competitors
The .22lr semi-automatic rifle market is filled with options. How does the Remington 597 compare to its rivals? Let’s compare it to a few popular alternatives.
The Ruger 10/22
The Ruger 10/22 is arguably the most popular .22lr semi-automatic rifle in the world. It is widely known for its reliability, affordability, and huge aftermarket support. The 597 often offers a slight edge in accuracy out of the box, and some shooters may prefer its design. The 10/22 offers a vast array of customization options, making it easy to tailor the rifle to your exact preferences.
The Marlin Model 60
The Marlin Model 60 is another classic .22lr semi-automatic rifle. It is known for its affordability and tube-fed magazine, which offers a large capacity. The 597 might have an accuracy advantage. The Marlin 60 offers a good value for the money and is a reliable option.
The Savage Arms A22
The Savage Arms A22 is a relatively modern .22lr semi-automatic rifle that offers good accuracy and features. It has a rotating bolt design. The 597 can sometimes offer a slight edge in terms of overall feel.
Owning and Maintaining Your Remington 597
Proper care is essential to ensure your Remington 597 .22lr semi auto rifle remains reliable and accurate for years to come.
Cleaning Essentials
Regular cleaning is a must. This includes the barrel, the bolt, and the action. Use a quality cleaning rod, bore brush, and solvent to remove carbon buildup and debris from the barrel. Clean the bolt and action with a solvent and a brush to remove any fouling and ensure smooth operation. Lubricate all moving parts with a quality gun oil or lubricant after cleaning.
Dealing with Common Troubles
While generally reliable, the 597 can occasionally experience some issues. A failure to feed can be caused by a dirty magazine or worn magazine lips. Ensure your magazine is clean and free of any obstructions. A failure to extract can be caused by a dirty chamber, a worn extractor, or the wrong type of ammunition. Make sure the chamber is clean, the extractor is in good condition, and you are using quality ammunition.
Accessories and Upgrades
There are various accessories and upgrade options available for the Remington 597 .22lr semi auto rifle.
Choosing the Right Optics
A scope is a popular upgrade, improving the rifle’s accuracy at longer ranges. Choose an optic that fits your intended use.
Magazine Choices
Consider additional magazines to increase your shooting time. Several magazine options are available.
Final Thoughts
The Remington 597 .22lr semi auto rifle is a solid performer in the competitive .22lr semi-automatic rifle market. Its combination of accuracy, affordability, and enjoyable shooting experience makes it a great choice for a wide range of shooters. While it may not have the vast aftermarket support of the Ruger 10/22, the 597 holds its own and deserves consideration if you are looking for an accurate and fun-to-shoot .22lr rifle. It’s a great choice for plinking, target shooting, and small game hunting.
Who is the Remington 597 for? The Remington 597 is a good choice for:
- New shooters looking for an affordable, easy-to-handle rifle.
- Experienced shooters looking for a fun and accurate .22lr.
- Those who want a versatile rifle for plinking, target shooting, and small game hunting.
If you’re in the market for a reliable, accurate, and fun .22lr semi-automatic rifle, the Remington 597 deserves a close look. Consider your needs, budget, and shooting style when making your decision. Happy shooting!
