Remington Model 788 .243 Win 18.5” Bolt Action Rifle MFD 1981 w/ Box
SOLD FOR: $1,000.50
LSB#: WY240906JN020
Make: Remington
Model: 788
Serial Number: B6119246
Year of Manufacture: 1981 (DB Date Code)
Caliber: .243 Win
Action Type: Bolt Action, Rear Locking Lugs, Fed by Detachable Box Magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “Remington / MODEL 788”, “B6119246”. The left side of the barrel is marked “REMINGTON ARMS CO. INC., ILION, N.Y. MADE IN U.S.A. 243 WIN.”. The left side of the chamber is marked “DB 73”. The right side of the chamber is marked with a series of proofs.
Barrel Length: 18.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade integral to a serrated blade screwed to the barrel. The rear sight is a fully adjustable u-notch screwed to a serrated base fixed to the barrel. The top of the receiver is mounted with two weaver rails.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is one piece smooth walnut with pistol grip, fluted straight comb, and serrated Remington hard rubber buttplate. The LOP measures 13 5/8” inches from the front of the trigger to the end of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the stock rates in about Excellent condition with little to no visible handling wear.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. There is minor fouling in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows little to no operation wear. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Excellent Condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with its factory box, owner’s manual, and total of one magazine.
Our Assessment: The Remington Model 788 is a bolt-action rifle known for its remarkable accuracy and affordability, introduced by Remington in 1967 as a budget-friendly alternative to their higher-end Model 700. It quickly gained a reputation for outperforming many contemporary rifles in its price range due to its unique design features. The Model 788 features a rear-locking lug system, which, while less expensive to manufacture, surprisingly contributed to its exceptional accuracy. This unconventional placement allows for a shorter bolt travel and a stiffer receiver.
It was offered in a variety of calibers suitable for both varmint hunting and larger game, including .222 Remington, .223 Remington, .308 Winchester, and .243 Winchester, among others. The rifle typically came with a detachable box magazine, which was somewhat rare for bolt-action rifles at the time and added to its appeal.
The Model 788’s stock was usually crafted from walnut, though some models came with synthetic stocks. Its straightforward, no-nonsense design and reliable performance made it especially popular among hunters and target shooters looking for a cost-effective yet capable rifle. Despite its discontinuation in 1983, the Remington Model 788 remains highly regarded in shooting circles for its accuracy and value. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
