Remington Sportsman 58

[marksman13]

Just a curious sort of question for the shotgun gurus of THR. I inherited a Remington Sportsman Model 58 in 16 gauge from my grandfather a few years ago. I have never seen much about this particular gun. I am assuming it is the predessesor to the Model 1100. It is a sweet shooting gun and is in pretty good shape. I'm not so much interested in its value as I am in opinions on this shotgun. How well liked are they? How do they compare to the other semi auto shotguns of their day? What changes were made to the 1100? Are they considered reliable, high quality guns or were they low quality guns? It does not appear to have very good checkering or stock to frame fit which leads me to believe it may have been a cheap, mass produced gun. May just be the manufacturing processes of the day. I'm just curious about how these guns are viewed by the shotgunning public. Thanks in advance for the feedback guys.

 

[eastwood44mag]

From what I've seen, they're the worst failure in Remington history.

Most of them jam like none other. As such, they didn't sell well. Consequently, they're worth quite a bit more now than they would be normally.

I've HEARD but can't verify, that you can put an 870 barrel on and cycle the bolt by hand, or get a machinist to drill the barrel for gas ports, rather than buy a new one. Have heard of people doing both, have not tried myself.

Worth hanging onto, but will never be respected the way the 1100 is.

Hope that helps.

 

[marksman13]

not doubting you, eastwood, but jamming has never been a problem with mine and I have shot it quite a bit. Good to know though if it ever becomes a problem. thanks for the info.

 

[gyp_c2]

ha...

...Best dove gun I've ever swung...Never a problem and grade I figuring made this 20 one of the finest little shotguns I've ever used. 28" Mod barrel and a natural pointer...
Pass shot @ 76 full paces on doves...Yup...I'm a fan...

 

[Dave McCracken]

A couple 58 owners I know are quite happy with theirs. One has had his since the 60s. Not much on clay shooting, he uses his for birds.

The other's a second generation operator. No probs...