The Remington Model 788 .308 Win: A Comprehensive Guide for Shooters

The Remington Model 788 in .308 Winchester is a rifle that has quietly earned a reputation for accuracy and reliability among experienced shooters. While it may not possess the prestige of some of Remington’s more famous models, the 788’s inherent design and the potent .308 Winchester cartridge make it a compelling choice for hunting, target shooting, and even as a dependable backup rifle. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the Model 788 .308 Win, exploring its features, benefits, potential drawbacks, and overall value proposition for today’s shooter.

Understanding the Remington Model 788

The Remington Model 788 was introduced in 1967 as a budget-friendly alternative to the more expensive Model 700. Despite its lower price point, the 788 incorporated several design features that contributed to exceptional accuracy. Notably, the rear-locking lugs on the bolt, a shorter bolt travel, and a rigid receiver provided a stable platform for consistent shot placement. Chambered in .308 Winchester, a cartridge known for its versatility and stopping power, the Model 788 became a popular choice for deer hunters and target shooters alike. While production ceased in 1983, the rifle remains a sought-after firearm on the used market, prized for its accuracy and affordability.

The .308 Winchester Cartridge: A Powerful and Versatile Round

The .308 Winchester cartridge, also known as 7.62x51mm NATO, is a centerfire rifle cartridge that has been a mainstay in both military and civilian applications for decades. Its popularity stems from its excellent ballistic performance, manageable recoil, and wide availability. The .308 Win is capable of delivering impressive accuracy at long ranges, making it suitable for target shooting and hunting a variety of game animals, from deer and antelope to elk and bear. Its versatility is further enhanced by the wide range of bullet weights and styles available, allowing shooters to tailor their ammunition to specific applications.

Key Features of the Remington Model 788 .308 Win

The Remington Model 788 .308 Win boasts several features that contribute to its accuracy and overall appeal:

• Rear-Locking Bolt: The bolt features locking lugs at the rear, which lock directly into the receiver. This design provides a rigid and stable lockup, minimizing flex and contributing to improved accuracy.
• Short Bolt Travel: The bolt travel is shorter than that of the Model 700, allowing for faster cycling and quicker follow-up shots.
• Rigid Receiver: The receiver is designed to be exceptionally rigid, providing a stable platform for the barrel and action.
• Adjustable Trigger: The trigger is adjustable, allowing shooters to fine-tune the pull weight to their preference. (Note: Trigger adjustments should only be performed by a qualified gunsmith.)
• Detachable Magazine: The rifle features a detachable magazine, allowing for quick and easy reloading.
• Simple and Reliable Design: The Model 788 is known for its simple and reliable design, making it easy to maintain and repair.
• .308 Winchester Chambering: The rifle is chambered in the .308 Winchester cartridge, offering excellent ballistic performance and versatility.

Advantages of Choosing the Remington Model 788 .308 Win

The Remington Model 788 .308 Win offers several distinct advantages for shooters:

• Exceptional Accuracy: The rifle’s rear-locking bolt, rigid receiver, and .308 Winchester chambering combine to deliver impressive accuracy, often rivaling that of more expensive rifles.
• Affordability: The Model 788 was originally designed as a budget-friendly option, and it remains relatively affordable on the used market.
• Reliability: The rifle’s simple and robust design ensures reliable performance in a variety of conditions.
• Versatility: The .308 Winchester cartridge is suitable for a wide range of applications, from hunting to target shooting.
• Manageable Recoil: While the .308 Win is a powerful cartridge, its recoil is manageable for most shooters, especially when paired with a recoil pad.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the Remington Model 788 .308 Win offers many advantages, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks:

• Availability: The rifle is no longer in production, so it can only be found on the used market.
• Cosmetic Imperfections: Many used Model 788s may exhibit cosmetic imperfections, such as scratches or wear marks.
• Limited Aftermarket Support: Aftermarket parts and accessories may be more difficult to find compared to more popular rifles like the Model 700.
• Trigger Safety: Some older Model 788s have been known to have trigger issues. It is highly recommended to have the trigger inspected by a qualified gunsmith before use.
• Stock Material: The original stock was often made of a less durable wood or synthetic material compared to modern rifles.

In-Depth Review: Remington Model 788 .308 Win

The Remington Model 788 .308 Win is a rifle that consistently surprises shooters with its accuracy and reliability. Its simple design belies its performance capabilities, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a no-nonsense, functional firearm. From our experience, this rifle excels in situations where accuracy and dependability are paramount.

User Experience and Usability

The Model 788 is relatively easy to use, even for novice shooters. The bolt operates smoothly, and the detachable magazine makes reloading quick and straightforward. The rifle’s weight and balance are generally good, contributing to comfortable handling. The factory stock, while functional, may benefit from an upgrade to improve ergonomics and recoil absorption.

Performance and Effectiveness

The Model 788 .308 Win truly shines in terms of accuracy. With quality ammunition, it’s capable of producing sub-MOA (minute of angle) groups, making it suitable for both hunting and target shooting. The .308 Winchester cartridge delivers ample stopping power for a variety of game animals, and its manageable recoil allows for accurate follow-up shots. We’ve found that the rifle performs best with bullet weights in the 150-165 grain range.

Pros

• Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA accuracy with quality ammunition.
• Affordable: Relatively inexpensive on the used market.
• Reliable: Simple and robust design ensures dependable performance.
• Versatile: Suitable for hunting, target shooting, and general-purpose use.
• Manageable Recoil: The .308 Win cartridge’s recoil is manageable for most shooters.

Cons/Limitations

• Availability: Can only be found on the used market.
• Cosmetic Condition: Used rifles may exhibit cosmetic imperfections.
• Aftermarket Support: Limited availability of aftermarket parts and accessories.
• Stock Material: Original stock may be less durable than modern stocks.

Ideal User Profile

The Remington Model 788 .308 Win is an excellent choice for:

• Hunters seeking an accurate and reliable rifle for deer, antelope, or other medium-sized game.
• Target shooters looking for an affordable rifle capable of producing tight groups.
• Shooters who appreciate a simple, no-nonsense firearm.
• Individuals on a budget who want a high-performing rifle without breaking the bank.

Key Alternatives

Alternatives to the Remington Model 788 .308 Win include:

• Remington Model 700: A more refined and widely available rifle with a broader range of aftermarket support.
• Savage Axis: A budget-friendly rifle known for its accuracy and value.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation

The Remington Model 788 .308 Win is a hidden gem in the world of bolt-action rifles. Its exceptional accuracy, reliability, and affordability make it a compelling choice for a wide range of shooters. While it may lack the prestige and aftermarket support of some of its competitors, the Model 788’s performance speaks for itself. If you’re looking for a dependable and accurate rifle without breaking the bank, the Remington Model 788 .308 Win is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to have it inspected by a qualified gunsmith before use.

Getting the Most Out of Your Remington 788

The Remington Model 788, despite its age, remains a capable and accurate rifle. To ensure peak performance and longevity, consider these tips:

• Proper Cleaning and Maintenance: Regularly clean and lubricate the rifle to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation.
• Quality Ammunition: Use high-quality ammunition that is appropriate for your intended use. Experiment with different bullet weights and styles to find what performs best in your rifle.
• Scope Mounting: Invest in a quality scope mount and rings to ensure a secure and stable platform for your optic.
• Trigger Adjustment: If you’re comfortable doing so (or have a qualified gunsmith do it), adjust the trigger pull weight to your preference.
• Stock Upgrade: Consider upgrading the stock to improve ergonomics and recoil absorption.

Why the Model 788 Remains a Favorite

The Remington Model 788 .308 Win has stood the test of time for good reason. Its combination of accuracy, reliability, and affordability makes it a standout choice for shooters of all levels. While it may not be the flashiest or most modern rifle on the market, its inherent design and the potent .308 Winchester cartridge ensure that it remains a capable and dependable firearm. If you value performance over aesthetics, the Model 788 is a rifle that deserves a place in your collection. Share your experiences with the Remington Model 788 .308 Win in the comments below!