Remington 742: A Comprehensive Look at the Woodsmaster Rifle

The Remington 742 Woodsmaster is a semi-automatic rifle that has been a popular choice among hunters and sport shooters for decades. Known for its sleek design and rapid firing capability, the Remington 742 held a prominent position in the hunting world. However, its reliability has been a frequent topic of discussion. This article delves into the history, features, performance, and potential issues associated with the Remington 742 Woodsmaster rifle.

History and Development of the Remington 742

Introduced in 1960, the Remington 742 was designed as a successor to the earlier Model 740. Remington aimed to create a more streamlined and modern semi-automatic rifle that would appeal to a broad range of shooters. The Remington 742 Woodsmaster was chambered in popular hunting calibers such as .30-06 Springfield, .308 Winchester, .280 Remington, and .243 Winchester, making it versatile for various game types. Its attractive wood stock and blued steel finish contributed to its widespread acceptance and sales success.

Key Features and Design

The Remington 742 features a gas-operated action, which cycles the bolt automatically after each shot, allowing for rapid follow-up shots. The rifle is typically equipped with a detachable box magazine, holding either four or five rounds, depending on the caliber. The receiver is made of steel, providing a solid platform for mounting optics. The Remington 742 also includes adjustable iron sights, though many users opt to install a scope for enhanced accuracy at longer ranges.

• Action: Gas-operated semi-automatic
• Calibers: .30-06 Springfield, .308 Winchester, .280 Remington, .243 Winchester
• Magazine Capacity: 4 or 5 rounds
• Stock: Wood (typically walnut or birch)
• Sights: Adjustable iron sights

Performance and Accuracy

When properly maintained, the Remington 742 can deliver adequate accuracy for hunting purposes. Many users report consistent groupings at 100 yards with quality ammunition. The semi-automatic action allows for quick follow-up shots, which can be crucial when hunting fast-moving game. However, accuracy can degrade over time if the rifle is not regularly cleaned and maintained, due to the design’s inherent weaknesses.

The Remington 742‘s performance is often contingent on the specific caliber and ammunition used. Heavier calibers like .30-06 Springfield offer significant stopping power for larger game, while lighter calibers such as .243 Winchester are suitable for smaller game and varmints. [See also: Best Hunting Rifles for Deer]

Common Issues and Problems

Despite its popularity, the Remington 742 is known for several reliability issues. The most common problem is related to the receiver rails wearing down prematurely. The design of the Remington 742 uses soft receiver metal and a multi-lug rotary bolt which causes excessive wear on the receiver rails, especially with frequent use or high-pressure ammunition. This wear can lead to failures to feed, failures to eject, and eventually, complete rifle failure. This issue is so prevalent that many gunsmiths advise against purchasing a used Remington 742 unless it is in exceptional condition and the owner is aware of the potential problems. The Remington 742‘s design, while initially appealing for its rapid firing, contributes to its long-term reliability problems.

Another frequently cited issue is magazine-related malfunctions. The magazines for the Remington 742 can be prone to bending or damage, leading to feeding problems. It’s important to use high-quality magazines and to ensure they are properly maintained to prevent malfunctions.

Specific Problems Encountered:

• Receiver Rail Wear: Premature wear leading to feeding and ejection issues.
• Magazine Malfunctions: Bent or damaged magazines causing feeding problems.
• Gas System Issues: Carbon buildup affecting the cycling of the action.
• Extraction Problems: Failures to extract spent cartridges.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliability of the Remington 742. Regular cleaning of the bore, gas system, and action is essential to prevent carbon buildup and corrosion. It is also important to lubricate the moving parts to reduce friction and wear. Given the known issues with receiver rail wear, it is advisable to inspect the receiver rails regularly for any signs of damage. Using lower pressure ammunition can help to reduce wear on the receiver rails, but this may also impact the rifle’s effectiveness for hunting larger game. [See also: Firearm Maintenance Tips for Hunters]

Furthermore, storing the Remington 742 properly is vital. Keep it in a dry, climate-controlled environment to prevent rust and corrosion. Disassembling the rifle for cleaning and storage can also help to ensure that all parts are properly maintained.

Alternatives to the Remington 742

Given the reliability issues associated with the Remington 742, many hunters and sport shooters may consider alternative semi-automatic rifles. Some popular alternatives include:

1. Remington Model 750 Woodsmaster: Designed as a successor to the 742, it addressed some of the reliability issues.
2. Browning BAR: A well-regarded semi-automatic rifle known for its reliability and accuracy.
3. Benelli R1: Another popular semi-automatic rifle known for its robust design.
4. AR-10 Platform Rifles: Modern sporting rifles based on the AR-10 design offer modularity and reliability.

The Remington 742 in the Modern Hunting Landscape

While the Remington 742 was once a staple in the hunting community, its reputation has been tarnished by its reliability issues. In the modern hunting landscape, there are many other semi-automatic rifles that offer improved performance and durability. However, the Remington 742 still holds a nostalgic appeal for some shooters, particularly those who appreciate its classic design and historical significance.

For those who own a Remington 742, it is crucial to be aware of its potential problems and to take steps to mitigate them through careful maintenance and responsible use. However, for those considering purchasing a semi-automatic rifle, it may be wise to explore alternative options that offer greater reliability and longevity. The Remington 742, while historically significant, requires diligent care to remain functional and safe.

Conclusion

The Remington 742 Woodsmaster is a rifle with a rich history and a mixed reputation. While it offers the advantages of a semi-automatic action and a classic design, it is plagued by reliability issues, particularly related to receiver rail wear. Proper maintenance can help to extend the life of a Remington 742, but potential buyers should be aware of its limitations and consider alternative options before making a purchase. Ultimately, the decision to own a Remington 742 depends on individual preferences and willingness to address its inherent shortcomings.