Remington Model 720s at show

[musketshooter]

I have been to numerous gun shows in the 40 years that I have been collecting and this is the first time I have ever seen a Navy Remington Model 720 trophy rifle. As a matter of fact, there were three on display with the award papers. I understand that there were only 800 of these made. They are just about like the Model 30 Express except for the stock. Now I have something to seek for the collection.

[dobek]

Remington 720's are absolutely beautiful! Especially the trophy rifles - because most of these were awarded BRAND NEW IN BOX and most have stayed that way.....

I have exacts at home - but Remington made approx 2,400-2,500 Model 720's with approx 1,000 going to the US Navy - - -

They were made in multiple calibers - with most civilian models seeing heavy use. Almost all of the Navy Trophy's are 30'06.



Collecting the 720 can almost be a collection in and of itself -

Trophy Rifles
Michigan Highway Patrol
Michigan Highway Patrol Sniper
Civilian rifles (multiple barrel length's multiple caliber)


Here is a link to a really good article from a past issue of the American Rifleman many moons ago: http://www.kelseygraphics.com/gpbill/m720_drafted%20.htm

If you plan on collecting 720's - be prepared - I have seen civilian models go from $1,400 - $3,600 (some calibers are pretty rare) - - Most trophy rifles go for mid $3,000 - - -

Good Luck

Steve

Michigan Sniper Rifle
http://www.kelseygraphics.com/gpbill/720_1.jpg

[M1Riflenut]

I'm certain I've seen these in the local gunshop a few times and they did'nt have no big price tag on them,they were just sitting in the racks with the rest of the used bolts guns. I recall this as I almost bought one in 30/06,was pretty clean but I thought the price of $500 was steep for a basic used bolt gun. I had no idea these were collectible,maybe I'll have to swing by that place and see what is still there.

[FlightRN]

:eusa_boohoo: Yep!, I was one that many years ago let a Remington 720 Navy Trophy rifle go (1994ish). The rifle had all the paperwork and original box. I even remember the gorgeous "FJA" crossed cannon on the stock. What was surprising was that the barrel didn't seen to be a heavy "target" barrel. Rather it had more of a hunting profile. If memory serves me correctly, I sold/traded it for around $1200. Not bad in those days but I wish I had it today.

One lives..One learns

Michael

[BHillman]

http://www.fototime.com/2A2771171C96988/standard.jpg

Bruce

http://militarysignatures.com/signatures/member6705.png

[dave]

I own a Navy Trophy rifle. It was awarded to GYSGT. J. L. MOORE in 1979 for the 'Pacific Division Rifle & Pistol Matches'. I wish I could find out about him. I have seen articles where it said 1000 or 1500 (and total production up to 3500, no definate records exsist) were purchased by the Navy in ealy 40's as they could not get enough issue rifles. Never used and stored till the 60's when they were awarded, over many years. The Navy only purchased 30-06. The rifles were only made in 30-06 and 270 which are scarcer. Most all police rifles were carbines. I am at least the third owner, I think. It has had a nice Unertl hunting scope and what look like Redfield bases but with small levers on the side to release the scope rings. Strock has been lightly sanded and finished, stamps are still there. I do not know how they were serialed but mine is in the hi 41,000 range. The highest M-30 I have is in the 28,000 range and and it is a later style with a stock like the 720.

[mhb]

I've seen/handled about 10-12 720s - most of them were trophy rifles. Rifles actually sold on the civilian market and used are, apparently, much less common. I have 2 - one is a trophy rifle and the other is a standard .30-06 rifle, which was used when I got it, but is in fine shape and a good shooter. These rifles are the highest development of the sporting Enfield-pattern rifles manufactured by Remington after WW1. I've also owned several Model 30 rifles, and consider both types among the best ever built in the U.S., and the 720 every bit as good as the Winchester 70.
mhb - Mike