A Look Back at the Remington 722
History and Design
The Remington 722 rifle emerged onto the scene in the post-World War II era, offering shooters a robust and affordable alternative to some of the more expensive bolt-action rifles available at the time. Its introduction marked a significant moment for Remington, further solidifying its place as a leader in American firearm manufacturing. Though some might overlook it in the shadow of its more famous relatives, the Remington 722 deserves recognition as a workhorse of its time.
The 722 was Remington’s answer to a need for a high-quality, bolt-action rifle built for a variety of shooting applications. Its design was rooted in practicality and functionality, emphasizing accuracy and ease of use. It was a product of Remington’s commitment to providing firearms that could perform reliably in the field and on the range, and it delivered on that promise, garnering a dedicated following amongst hunters and shooters.
What set the Remington 722 apart were its core design features. It was built on a short-action receiver, which contributed to its overall sleek profile and faster cycling capabilities, especially in the .257 Roberts chambering. This action was engineered to be strong and capable of handling a wide array of cartridges, providing a solid platform for accuracy. The bolt action was smooth and efficient, allowing for quick follow-up shots when needed. It’s the kind of rifle that becomes an extension of the shooter.
The receiver itself was robust, designed to provide secure support for the barrel and scope, maximizing the potential for accuracy. The triggers were generally crisp and predictable, further aiding precision. The overall build quality of the Remington 722 was exceptional for its time. Its construction was of a high standard for its price range, ensuring that the rifle could withstand years of use and remain a reliable tool in the field.
Advantages
One of the significant advantages of the Remington 722 was its price point. It offered excellent value for money, providing a level of performance and quality that surpassed its contemporaries. This affordability, combined with its reliability and accuracy, made it a popular choice for both recreational shooters and serious hunters. It wasn’t just a good rifle; it was a smart purchase.
Exploring the Versatile .257 Roberts Cartridge
Origin and Ballistics
The .257 Roberts cartridge, also known as the 25 Roberts, has a rich history of its own, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of innovation and ingenuity in cartridge design. Its creation was born out of a desire for a cartridge that could provide flat trajectories, moderate recoil, and outstanding accuracy across various shooting applications. The .257 Roberts stands out in the crowded world of rifle cartridges for good reason.
The story of the .257 Roberts begins in the early 20th century, inspired by the desire for a cartridge that provided outstanding performance. It was created by combining the necking-down of the 7x57mm Mauser case to accept a .257-inch (6.5 mm) bullet. The 7x57mm Mauser case provided the perfect foundation for a cartridge designed to deliver flat trajectories and impressive downrange performance. The original design was for the cartridge to be used in both bolt-action rifles and in semi-automatic rifles as well.
The .257 Roberts quickly earned a reputation for its exceptional ballistic characteristics. It delivers flat trajectories, allowing for greater accuracy at longer ranges. This meant that hunters and shooters could engage targets at greater distances with confidence, knowing that the bullet would arrive at its destination with minimal drop.
The choice of bullet weights contributed to its overall effectiveness. Common bullet weights for the .257 Roberts range from grains, meaning you have choices for many kinds of game and ranges. This versatility allowed for a wide variety of hunting and shooting applications.
Benefits of the Cartridge
Moderate recoil is another significant advantage of the .257 Roberts. The relatively low recoil made it comfortable to shoot for extended periods, which helped shooters develop and improve their skills. The ease of control was a plus for hunters, enabling them to make fast follow-up shots.
This cartridge proved to be highly versatile for hunting various game species. The .257 Roberts is ideally suited for deer, antelope, and other medium-sized game. Its ability to consistently deliver impressive accuracy in the field is also part of its legacy. It has been widely used across the country for its hunting capabilities.
The .257 Roberts has a high ballistic coefficient, which means that the bullets it fires are less affected by wind and other environmental factors. This stability helped to maintain accuracy at longer ranges. The cartridge’s consistent performance under various conditions made it a favorite for hunters and long-range shooters.
The Perfect Blend: Remington 722 and .257 Roberts
Synergy and Design
The combination of the Remington 722 and the .257 Roberts is more than just a convenient pairing; it’s a synergistic match that maximizes the strengths of both rifle and cartridge. When these two elements are combined, the result is a remarkably capable and enjoyable shooting experience.
The Remington 722’s action is an ideal platform for the .257 Roberts cartridge. The short-action design is a great fit for the case length of the .257 Roberts, resulting in smooth and reliable feeding and extraction. This seamless integration enhances the rifle’s overall performance and contributes to its accuracy. The robust receiver of the 722 provides a stable foundation for the cartridge’s performance, allowing the shooter to tap into the .257 Roberts potential.
The versatility of the .257 Roberts perfectly complements the Remington 722’s intended use. The cartridge’s flat trajectory and moderate recoil make it well-suited for various hunting scenarios. It is an excellent choice for hunting various game species in varying terrains, making the Remington 722 a perfect companion.
Hunting and Shooting Applications
In the field, the 257 Roberts Remington 722 shines. Hunters across the globe have employed this combination to bag everything from pronghorn antelope in the wide-open spaces of the American West to whitetail deer in the dense forests of the East. Its accuracy and ability to deliver consistent results make it a preferred choice for hunters who value precision and reliability. The light recoil and flat trajectory of the cartridge allow for quick follow-up shots, if necessary. It’s a combination that consistently delivers in real-world hunting situations.
For target shooting and varmint hunting, the 257 Roberts Remington 722 combo also proves exceptional. The accuracy potential of the rifle, enhanced by the cartridge’s design, allows for impressive groupings at various ranges. The flat trajectory and mild recoil enable shooters to engage targets with ease, while the rifle’s ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended shooting sessions.
The Remington 722 in .257 Roberts has the potential to achieve exceptional accuracy, often capable of producing sub-minute-of-angle groups at the range. The rifle’s inherent accuracy, combined with the cartridge’s inherent ballistic performance, allows for consistent results. This accuracy potential makes it a viable option for competition shooting and target practice.
Owning and Caring for the Timeless Duo
Finding and Inspecting
Finding a Remington 722 chambered in .257 Roberts in the current market is a worthwhile endeavor for those looking for a classic rifle. Gun shows, online auction sites, and local gun shops are potential sources. When considering a purchase, a thorough inspection is crucial.
Carefully examine the rifle’s overall condition, checking for any signs of wear and tear. Pay attention to the barrel, ensuring that it is free from pitting or corrosion. Inspect the bolt action for smooth operation and proper cycling. Check the trigger for a clean and crisp break. If possible, handle the rifle to get a feel for its ergonomics and overall balance. Taking the time to carefully inspect a used rifle increases the likelihood of finding a well-maintained example.
Maintenance and Considerations
Proper maintenance is vital for the longevity and continued performance of the 257 Roberts Remington 722. Cleaning the rifle after each shooting session is essential to remove any fouling or debris. Use a quality gun cleaner to dissolve carbon buildup and residue in the barrel and action. Lubricate all moving parts with gun oil to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Regular maintenance contributes to enhanced accuracy and reliability.
Ammo selection is another important consideration. The .257 Roberts is a versatile cartridge, and various bullet weights and types are available, so it is useful to find what best suits your shooting needs. Different brands and bullet designs will yield different results, so experimentation is part of the process.
Upgrades and modifications offer a way to customize the Remington 722 for further enhancement. Improved scope mounts and optics can be added to improve precision, or a custom stock can be installed for enhanced ergonomics. Such enhancements are often personal, allowing each user to fine-tune the rifle to their specific preferences.
While the 257 Roberts Remington 722 has numerous advantages, there are also a few potential drawbacks to consider. Limited availability of new rifles in this combination can be a factor, but the used market often offers many possibilities. Ensure the rifle’s overall condition is good before buying. A well-maintained rifle can provide years of dependable use.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy
The 257 Roberts Remington 722 combination remains a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted firearms and effective cartridges. It offers a combination of accuracy, reliability, and versatility that has earned it a devoted following among hunters and shooting enthusiasts. It is the perfect blend of old-world craftsmanship and modern performance.
The benefits of the Remington 722 in .257 Roberts are numerous. Its smooth action, exceptional accuracy, and the versatility of the cartridge all combine to offer a shooting experience that is both rewarding and enjoyable. From hunting deer to precision target shooting, the rifle handles it all.
The timeless appeal of the Remington 722 in .257 Roberts endures, captivating shooters with its classic elegance and performance. It serves as a reminder of the simple pleasures of shooting, the joy of a well-placed shot, and the satisfaction of owning a firearm that will likely outlast its owner. It is not merely a rifle; it is a piece of history, a tool, and a symbol of a bygone era.
For those who value performance, reliability, and the sheer enjoyment of shooting, the 257 Roberts Remington 722 is a combination worthy of consideration. Its legacy is secure, and it will continue to provide decades of pleasure.
