I posted this also on the 700rifle forum but it doesn't seem like many people are using that forum anymore. I took in a Remington 700 in 30-06 last week in a trade and need some advice. I had originally planned to use it as a project gun when I agreed to the trade but then noticed it was older than I expected. The first indication it was old was the hard plastic buttpad/plate. After researching the barrel stamps and other features, I've concluded it is a ABL model manufactured in Dec 1989.
My friend who traded it with me bought it about 10 years ago from his previous hunting buddy who passed away. He hunted with it regularly as evident from the dings, scratches, and scuffs on the stock. However overall it doesn't look too bad considering the age. I'm really surprised and pleased by how nice the action and bolt are. Not quite as smooth as my Tikkas but dang near close.
I'm now trying to figure out what I should do with this rifle. I don't have any sentimental attachment to this gun but it feels wrong modifying an old rifle like this. I only hunt suppressed these days so if I keep it for hunting, I'd want a threaded barrel, a new recoil pad, and to refinish or replace the stock at a minimum.
So my questions are:
1) Is there any value in keeping this in its current condition from a collectors perspective or are these not really that collectable? It seems the going rate for these is around $500 so less than a new one anyway.
2) Would you recommend threading the current barrel?
3) For those that are familiar with these models, is there any way to see if the original safety recall was performed on the trigger?
I'll post photos below.
My friend who traded it with me bought it about 10 years ago from his previous hunting buddy who passed away. He hunted with it regularly as evident from the dings, scratches, and scuffs on the stock. However overall it doesn't look too bad considering the age. I'm really surprised and pleased by how nice the action and bolt are. Not quite as smooth as my Tikkas but dang near close.
I'm now trying to figure out what I should do with this rifle. I don't have any sentimental attachment to this gun but it feels wrong modifying an old rifle like this. I only hunt suppressed these days so if I keep it for hunting, I'd want a threaded barrel, a new recoil pad, and to refinish or replace the stock at a minimum.
So my questions are:
1) Is there any value in keeping this in its current condition from a collectors perspective or are these not really that collectable? It seems the going rate for these is around $500 so less than a new one anyway.
2) Would you recommend threading the current barrel?
3) For those that are familiar with these models, is there any way to see if the original safety recall was performed on the trigger?
I'll post photos below.
