The History of Remington and Its Iconic Rifles

Remington Arms has built rifles for over 200 years, from Eliphalet Remington II's first hand-forged barrel in 1816 through the Rolling Block, the Model 700, and today's budget-friendly Model 783. Along the way the company survived two bankruptcies and now operates in split form — RemArms builds the firearms, Vista Outdoor owns the ammunition and Remington brand name — but the rifle lineage runs in an unbroken line from that first barrel to the 783 magazines American Rifle Magazines builds today.

Early beginnings: a humble start (1816-1850s)

The story began in 1816 with Eliphalet Remington II, a young blacksmith in Ilion, New York, who set out to forge his own rifle barrel. Manufacturing barrels at the time was a labor-intensive process requiring hours of hand forging. Eliphalet developed a forging method using water-powered hammers, cutting the physical labor involved and improving consistency and quality. The result was a rifle that quickly gained attention for its craftsmanship, laying the foundation for the Remington brand.

19th century growth: innovation and reach

During the Civil War, Remington won government contracts to supply the Union Army, and the company grew significantly during this period while continuing to build for civilian hunters. After the war, Remington turned toward the westward expansion market as firearms became essential tools for settlers. The company also expanded into shotguns to serve the growing popularity of bird hunting. The introduction of the Rolling Block rifle — reliable, simple, and used by militaries and civilians worldwide — further built Remington's reputation during this period.

20th century milestones

The 20th century brought periods of financial difficulty, but Remington's willingness to listen to its customers led to some of its most iconic rifles. After surveying American sportsmen, the company developed a new bolt-action rifle that would evolve into one of the best-selling sporting rifles in history. Remington also re-entered the pump-action shotgun market, eventually producing what became the best-selling pump-action shotgun in firearm history. The launch of the Remington Model 700 in 1962 marked another high point — renowned for its accuracy and versatility, it remains a staple for hunters and precision shooters today.

Modern era: transition and continuity

Remington Arms filed for bankruptcy for a second time in 2020, and the company's assets were divided among several buyers. The firearms business, excluding Marlin Firearms, was acquired by Roundhill Group LLC, which now operates under the name RemArms. The ammunition segment, including the Remington brand name and the Lonoke ammunition plant, was purchased by Vista Outdoor. Each entity now focuses on a specific piece of the original company's operations.

Influential Remington rifle models

• Remington Rolling Block Cartridge Rifle (1866): a patented action that created a smooth loading process; used by more than half the world's armies or purchased for police and military purposes.
• Remington-Lee Bolt Action Rifle (1879): designed by James Paris Lee, this rifle featured a detachable box magazine and laid groundwork for Remington's later success with hunters and sportsmen.
• Remington Keene Bolt Action Rifle (1880): one of Remington's early bolt-action designs, built for military and civilian use.
• Remington Model 8 (1906): the first semi-automatic rifle chambered in a round suited to deer hunting, proving self-loading rifles could be reliable in the field.
• Remington Model 14 (1912): a pump-action centerfire rifle with a spiral magazine tube designed to prevent bullet tips from detonating rounds in the tube, popular among deer hunters for reliability and ease of handling.
• Remington Model 700 (1962): known for accuracy from its snug barrel chamber, unique bedding system, and fast lock time. More than 5 million have been sold, making it one of the best-selling bolt-action rifles in history.
• Remington Model 788 (1967): a budget-friendly bolt-action rifle that built a following for its accuracy despite its simplicity.
• Remington Model 783 (2013): a cost-effective, high-performing bolt-action hunting rifle with modern materials and a user-friendly design — the rifle American Rifle Magazines builds factory-pattern replacement magazines for today.

Are older Remington rifles still worth buying?

Yes, for buyers who value proven designs and long-term reliability — models like the Model 700 built their reputation on consistent accuracy that still holds up today when properly maintained. Be aware of limited replacement-part availability and magazine compatibility differences across generations; verify the exact model and caliber before buying extra magazines or parts for a used rifle.

Choosing the right Remington rifle

Start with how you plan to use it. Bolt-action models are generally preferred for hunting accuracy and reliability, while semi-automatic options offer faster follow-up shots. Consider caliber, weight, and handling — some newer models focus on affordability and ease of use, while older models offer more traditional build quality.

Which magazine do you need?

If your Remington rifle is a Model 783, ARM builds the factory-pattern replacement magazine for your exact caliber and action length:

• .308 Win / .243 Win / 6.5 Creedmoor (short action): Remington 783 Short Action Magazine
• .222 / .223 Remington (short action): Remington 783 Short Action .223 Magazine
• .270 Win / .30-06 Springfield / .25-06 Rem / .35 Whelen (long action): Remington 783 Long Action Magazine
• 7mm Rem Mag / .300 Win Mag (magnum long action): Remington 783 Magnum Long Action Magazine
• Browse everything: Remington 783 Magazines collection or the Remington 783 Magazine Guide

Frequently asked questions

When was Remington founded?

In 1816, by Eliphalet Remington II in Ilion, New York.

Who owns Remington today?

Remington's assets were split after a 2020 bankruptcy. RemArms (Roundhill Group LLC) owns the firearms business, excluding Marlin Firearms. Vista Outdoor owns the ammunition segment and the Remington brand name.

When was the Remington 783 introduced?

2013, as a cost-effective, high-performing bolt-action hunting rifle.

Does American Rifle Magazines make magazines for every Remington rifle?

No. ARM builds factory-pattern replacement magazines for the Remington Model 783 only, across its short action, long action, and magnum long action calibers.

Can I still get magazines for an older Remington rifle like the Model 700 or 788?

ARM's Remington lineup covers the Model 783 specifically. For other Remington models, check with a dealer familiar with that model's magazine compatibility, since parts and magazine designs vary by generation.

If you're running a Model 783, confirm your caliber and action length on the barrel and shop the correct factory-pattern replacement magazine.

Buying for a shop, a range, or more than one rifle? See our wholesale purchasing terms for volume pricing.