Remington Models 8 & 81

[range_rider13]

Gentlemen:

I inherited my grandfather's Remington Model 8 in .30 Remington caliber back in the 1970's. I've developed a renewed interest in this old rifle and while doing research it is mentioned a lot with the Model 81. Can anyone tell me what the differences between the Models 8 and 81 are? I also plan to reload ammo (since they apparently don't make it anymore) for this old jewel and understand that loads for the 30-30 are the same as the .30 Remington. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Colt46]

I commiserate with you

I've got my grandfathers Model 81 in .300 savage from his estate. I use it for back up rifle during deer season. Small, but Heavy! Weighs a ton and is pretty accurate. It has a low power blued steel scope(Lyman I think) mounted to the left of the reciever in a kind of awkward sidesaddle mount.
The .30 remington is ballistically similar to the .30-30 from what I've heard. I don't know if I'd stake my life or a grand old, ugly family heirloom on it though.
Sorry I couldn't be any more help.

 

[Gator]

I used to have an 81, it and the 8 are neat old rifles. I think they were pretty much the same with the 81 having a few cosmetic changes. Here's a forum:

http://remautoloaders.proboards76.com/

 

[Jim Watson]

The ones I know about are:
Model 8 has a straight grip stock, Model 81 pistol grip and more wood overall.
Model 8 was made in .25, .30, .32, and .35 Remington rimless calibers, Model 81 added .300 Savage.

 

[.45Guy]

What about the 8A? Was it a kind of amalgam of 8 and 81?