Introduction
The crack of a .22 Magnum round, followed by the satisfying *thwack* as it hits its target, is a sound that resonates with shooters who appreciate both power and precision. While the .22 Long Rifle often steals the spotlight, the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) offers a significant step up in performance, making it a favorite for small game hunting, varmint control, and simply enjoying the thrill of accurate shooting. And when it comes to semi-automatic rifles chambered for this potent cartridge, the Remington 597 22 Magnum holds a prominent place. This article will explore the features, performance, and overall value of the Remington 597 22 Magnum, providing a comprehensive guide for potential buyers and current owners.
The story of the 597 family began with the goal of creating a reliable and accurate rimfire rifle at an accessible price point. Introduced in the late 1990s, the Remington 597 quickly gained popularity due to its innovative design and consistent performance. The 597 was a departure from the typical blowback action found in many rimfire rifles. It utilized a unique “bolt-guide” system, which provided more consistent alignment and contributed to improved accuracy. While the original 597 was chambered primarily in .22 Long Rifle, Remington quickly expanded the line to include models in the more powerful .22 Magnum. The resulting Remington 597 22 Magnum offered hunters and target shooters the ability to leverage the .22 WMR cartridge’s superior ballistics in a semi-automatic platform.
Dissecting the Details: Examining the Features of the 597 22 Magnum
Let’s delve into the specific characteristics of the Remington 597 22 Magnum. Understanding these features is crucial for evaluating the rifle’s capabilities and making an informed purchase decision.
The heart of the 597’s operation is its semi-automatic action. This system allows for rapid follow-up shots, crucial for both hunting and target shooting scenarios. The design is based on blowback operation, which means the cartridge case’s pressure itself cycles the action. The simplicity of the blowback system contributes to its overall reliability.
The barrel of the Remington 597 22 Magnum plays a critical role in accuracy. Constructed from steel, the barrel is typically around 20 inches in length, providing a good balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance. The rifling inside the barrel imparts a spin to the bullet, stabilizing it in flight and contributing to greater accuracy. The exact details of the rifling (e.g., number of grooves, twist rate) may vary slightly depending on the production year, but the consistent goal is to ensure the .22 WMR bullet performs optimally.
The magazine is another key component of the 597. The magazine is typically a detachable box-style magazine, often holding ten rounds of .22 WMR ammunition. The design of the magazine is generally reliable, although proper loading and maintenance are important for preventing feeding issues. Having a decent magazine capacity allows for more shooting before having to reload, making it especially helpful when hunting or engaging multiple targets.
The stock and furniture contribute significantly to the feel and handling of the rifle. The Remington 597 22 Magnum is commonly found with a synthetic stock, offering durability and resistance to weather. The synthetic stock is often textured to improve grip, even in wet conditions. The design of the stock and forend is generally ergonomic, offering a comfortable shooting experience. However, many users also seek out aftermarket wood stocks for a more classic appearance.
The trigger is another essential part of a good shooting experience. The trigger on the 597 can vary in feel depending on the specific model and any modifications made. It generally offers a pull weight of around five to seven pounds. While it isn’t typically a match-grade trigger, it’s generally considered acceptable for hunting and plinking purposes. The trigger pull can, in some cases, be improved with aftermarket trigger kits.
Sights are a critical element in aiming. The Remington 597 22 Magnum often comes with basic iron sights consisting of a front post and a rear adjustable sight. However, the receiver is typically grooved to accept scope mounts, which are an extremely common and often necessary addition for maximizing accuracy. Mounting a scope significantly increases the effective range and precision, making it an indispensable upgrade for many shooters.
The receiver is usually made from steel or aluminum. The receiver’s purpose is to house the rifle’s internal components and the bolt, and it must be durable and capable of withstanding the forces of firing.
Performance Evaluation: Accuracy and Real-World Shooting
The ultimate test of any firearm is its performance on the range or in the field. The Remington 597 22 Magnum has a reputation for respectable accuracy, but its actual performance is impacted by various factors.
Accuracy testing is typically done by firing groups from a stable platform, such as a benchrest, to minimize shooter error. The size of these groups is measured to determine the rifle’s precision.
The Remington 597 22 Magnum is capable of achieving groups of around one to two inches at fifty yards with quality ammunition and a good optic. At one hundred yards, groups can often be expanded to three inches or slightly larger, dependent on the individual rifle and the shooter’s skill.
The choice of ammunition significantly affects accuracy. The .22 WMR cartridge offers various bullet weights, styles, and manufacturers. Hollow points are popular for hunting, as they expand on impact, creating a larger wound channel. Full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds are often used for target shooting because they offer consistent penetration. The shooter should experiment with different brands and bullet types to discover the ammunition that performs best in their specific rifle.
Environmental factors, such as wind and temperature, can affect the bullet’s trajectory and impact point. Experienced shooters learn to compensate for these factors to achieve the best possible accuracy.
The recoil of the Remington 597 22 Magnum is generally light, making it easy to control. The blowback action dampens some of the recoil, allowing for rapid follow-up shots.
The Pros and Cons: Weighing the Strengths and Weaknesses
As with any firearm, the Remington 597 22 Magnum has its share of strengths and weaknesses. It is important to consider these aspects to determine if it meets your individual needs.
The Remington 597 22 Magnum is known for its reliability. Many owners report consistent function with various types of .22 WMR ammunition. The simplicity of the blowback design contributes to its robustness.
Accuracy, as previously discussed, is generally considered good for the price point. With proper ammunition and a quality scope, the rifle is capable of hitting targets at significant distances.
The Remington 597 22 Magnum is relatively affordable. The initial cost of the rifle, along with the cost of ammunition, makes it an accessible option for many shooters.
The rifle and its parts are generally easy to acquire. Parts are typically available for replacement.
The Remington 597 22 Magnum is also relatively easy to use and maintain. The design is user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced shooters.
The ergonomic design of the stock and forend makes the rifle comfortable to hold and shoot.
However, like any product, there are drawbacks. Some owners have reported occasional jams or malfunctions, although these are often related to magazine issues or dirty ammunition. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance can help minimize these problems.
The trigger pull, as previously mentioned, is not always the best. Many owners find it acceptable but will often upgrade to aftermarket triggers to achieve a lighter, crisper pull.
The material quality of some components, particularly the polymer parts, might not match the highest standards. Although generally robust, the polymer parts may wear over time.
Comparisons to other .22 Magnum rifles often show that some competitors offer slightly superior accuracy or features, although this usually comes with a higher price tag.
Applications and Uses: Exploring the Versatility of the 597
The Remington 597 22 Magnum‘s versatility makes it suitable for a variety of applications.
Hunting small game is a primary use for the rifle. The .22 WMR cartridge provides sufficient power for taking down rabbits, squirrels, and other small varmints at moderate ranges. The semi-automatic action allows for quick follow-up shots, increasing the chances of a successful hunt.
Target shooting and plinking are also popular activities. The rifle’s accuracy makes it enjoyable to shoot at targets at the range or in a safe outdoor setting.
In some locations, the .22 WMR cartridge can be considered suitable for self-defense, though it is vital to be informed about local laws and regulations. While not ideal, the power of the .22 Magnum offers a degree of protection. The choice of ammunition is critical in a defensive scenario.
Caring for Your Investment: Maintenance and Cleaning
Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the Remington 597 22 Magnum functions reliably and maintains its accuracy over time.
The rifle should be cleaned after each shooting session or at regular intervals. Use a cleaning rod, bore brush, and solvent to remove powder residue and fouling from the barrel. Clean the bolt and action with a suitable gun cleaner and lubricant.
Lubricate all moving parts after cleaning, including the bolt, trigger mechanism, and magazine follower. This will help ensure smooth operation and prevent rust.
Store the rifle in a secure location, ideally in a gun safe. The rifle should be stored unloaded, with the magazine removed.
Contrasting the Choices: Comparison with Other Options
When considering a Remington 597 22 Magnum, it’s helpful to compare it to other rifles in the same class.
Some notable competitors are the Marlin 925M and the Savage A22 Magnum.
The Marlin 925M is a bolt-action rifle. While generally reliable and accurate, it doesn’t offer the rapid-fire capability of the semi-automatic 597. The Marlin tends to be somewhat less expensive.
The Savage A22 Magnum is another semi-automatic option. It is designed with the AccuTrigger, which offers a crisp and adjustable trigger pull. The Savage rifles often have slightly better overall accuracy.
The Remington 597 22 Magnum balances reliability, accuracy, and price.
Purchasing and Pricing: Where to Find Your 597
The Remington 597 22 Magnum can be purchased from various sources.
Reputable firearms retailers, both brick-and-mortar stores and online dealers, are common sources.
Gun shows are also good places to find the Remington 597 22 Magnum.
Online auction sites may also have Remington 597 22 Magnum available.
The cost of the Remington 597 22 Magnum varies depending on its condition, the features, and the retailer. New rifles typically range from a few hundred dollars. Used rifles may be available at a reduced price.
The Final Word: Conclusion and Considerations
In conclusion, the Remington 597 22 Magnum is a solid choice for shooters looking for a reliable, accurate, and versatile .22 WMR rifle. Its semi-automatic action, combined with the power of the .22 WMR cartridge, makes it well-suited for hunting small game, target shooting, and varmint control.
The Remington 597 22 Magnum will appeal to hunters, target shooters, and anyone seeking an accurate and fun-to-shoot rifle.
If you’re in the market for a .22 Magnum rifle and value a balance of performance, affordability, and reliability, the Remington 597 22 Magnum deserves your consideration. Its widespread availability and the support network of accessories and parts make it an accessible and enjoyable choice.
