Remington Model 742

The Remington Model 742, marketed as the Woodsmaster, is a gas-operated semi-automatic centerfire rifle produced by Remington Arms from 1960 to 1980.^[1] Designed for hunting, it features a 22-inch barrel, a four-round detachable box magazine, and was chambered in cartridges such as .243 Winchester, .280 Remington, .30-06 Springfield, and .308 Winchester, with the .30-06 being predominant.^[2] Approximately 1.4 million units were manufactured, reflecting its popularity among big-game hunters despite inherent design limitations in the direct-impingement gas system that contributed to frequent jamming and extraction failures under field conditions.^[1][3][4] Introduced as an evolution of the earlier Model 740, the 742 incorporated minor refinements but retained the core action mechanism derived from Remington's pump-action designs, prioritizing rapid follow-up shots for woods hunting over absolute reliability.^[2] Available in grades including the standard ADL (with sling swivels and impressed checkering) and upscale BDL (featuring basket-weave checkering and hooded sights), it catered to varying budgets while maintaining consistent mechanical specifications.^[2] Production ceased in December 1980, supplanted by the improved Model 7400 and Model Four, which addressed chronic issues like over-gassing, receiver rail wear, and sensitivity to ammunition variations through redesigned components and better tolerance control.^[2][3][4] Though valued for its lightweight handling and quick cycling in ideal scenarios, the Model 742's reputation is tempered by empirical reports of maintenance-intensive operation, including the need for meticulous cleaning to mitigate carbon buildup in the gas port and bolt assembly, underscoring a causal link between its aggressive gas impulse and accelerated component degradation.^[4][3] Special editions, such as the 150th Anniversary commemorative in 1966, highlighted its cultural footprint in American sporting arms, yet post-production parts scarcity has amplified challenges for owners reliant on aftermarket solutions.^[5]

Development and History

Origins as Model 740 Successor

The Remington Model 742 semi-automatic rifle originated as a refined successor to the Model 740, which Remington introduced in 1955 as its first centerfire autoloading sporting rifle. The Model 740 featured a gas-operated system with a 22-inch barrel and 4-round detachable box magazine, but early production units suffered from reliability issues, including jamming and extraction failures, leading to its discontinuation after approximately 251,398 rifles were made by 1959.^[6][4] To address these shortcomings, Remington engineers implemented design enhancements for the Model 742, launched in 1960 and designated as a direct improvement over the 740. Principal modifications included an internal bolt latch mechanism to secure the bolt during firing and prevent premature opening, alongside refinements to the gas port and feeding geometry that mitigated the ejection and cycling problems prevalent in the predecessor. These changes preserved the core gas-operated, short-stroke piston action while enhancing operational dependability for hunting applications.^[1][3][4] The Model 742 retained the Woodsmaster branding and ADL/BDL configurations of the 740, with production spanning calibers such as .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester, reflecting Remington's intent to evolve a mass-market semi-automatic rifle optimized for big-game pursuits. This iterative development, driven by field-reported failures rather than radical redesign, underscored Remington's engineering focus on incremental reliability gains, culminating in over 1.4 million units produced through 1980.^[3][7]

Production Timeline and Manufacturing

The Remington Model 742 was produced from 1960 to 1980 as a gas-operated semi-automatic rifle, succeeding the Model 740 introduced in 1955.^[1] Manufacturing occurred at Remington Arms facilities, primarily in Ilion, New York, where standard industrial processes including precision machining of steel components, barrel rifling, and assembly of the gas system were employed.^[8] Total production reached approximately 1.5 million units, including standard rifles and carbine variants.^[4] Serial number sequences for the Model 742 began at 1001 and progressed through ranges shared later with models like the 760, with barrel date codes—consisting of a letter for the month followed by one or two letters for the year—stamped on the left side near the receiver to indicate manufacture date.^{[9] [10]} In 1966, Remington produced 11,412 commemorative Model 742 rifles in .30-06 Springfield caliber to mark the company's 150th anniversary, featuring embellished finishes.^[5] Production ceased in December 1980, with the Model 742 replaced by the Model 4 and Model 7400, which incorporated design refinements while maintaining core manufacturing techniques.^[2] Of the total output, around 113,970 units were carbine configurations.^[11]

Design and Technical Specifications

Operating System and Mechanism

The Remington Model 742 is a gas-operated semi-automatic rifle, with propellant gases vented from a port at the midsection of the barrel to drive the cycling process.^[12] Upon firing, these gases expand through a hollow nozzle integrated into the barrel lug, impinging on a spring-loaded piston block that transmits force via connected action bars to the bolt carrier assembly.^[13] This rearward impulse unlocks the rotating bolt head from the barrel extension, retracts the bolt to extract and eject the spent cartridge via a fixed ejector, and cocks the hammer while compressing the recoil spring housed in the receiver.^[13] A bolt latch engages to prevent excessive rotation of the bolt head during this phase, ensuring controlled movement.^[13] The bolt employs a multi-lug rotating locking system, with lugs on the bolt head engaging corresponding recesses in a hardened steel barrel extension for headspace and lockup.^[13] Early iterations featured nine lugs, but the Model 742 incorporated refinements, including larger lugs positioned such that the upper set rides in a shallow groove within the extension to distribute shear forces and enhance durability over the predecessor Model 740.^[13] The upper receiver guides the bolt carrier via rails, and a hardened steel insert aids in lug alignment to mitigate wear.^[13] After reaching full recoil, the compressed recoil spring drives the bolt carrier forward, where it strips a cartridge from the 4-round detachable box magazine, chambers it, and rotates the bolt head into battery for locking.^[13] This mechanism draws from the gas-operated design of the Remington Model 1100 shotgun, adapted for centerfire rifle pressures, with the gas block retaining the piston and action bars via a roll pin for field disassembly and cleaning.^[3][14] The system prioritizes reliable cycling across calibers like .30-06 Springfield, though it requires periodic maintenance of the gas port and piston to prevent fouling-induced failures.^[12]

Key Features and Ergonomics

The Remington Model 742 features a gas-operated semi-automatic action derived from the design used in the Remington Model 1100 shotgun, incorporating a locked breech mechanism with dual action bars for reliable cycling across various factory loads.^[3][11] This system utilizes a gas port under the barrel to direct propellant gases into a piston, driving the bolt carrier rearward to eject the spent case and load a fresh round from the detachable box magazine, which typically holds four rounds.^[15] The rifle employs a free-floating barrel, typically 22 inches in length for standard models, which enhances accuracy by minimizing contact with the stock and fore-end.^[11] Side ejection through a port on the right side of the receiver improves compatibility with scopes and allows for more natural shouldering by right-handed shooters, reducing interference from ejected brass.^[11] The take-down design facilitates field stripping, with the barrel and gas system removable from the receiver via a threaded connection secured by a hex nut, aiding maintenance in hunting environments.^[2] Constructed with a milled steel receiver and high-quality walnut stock featuring checkering on the pistol grip and fore-end, the Model 742 emphasizes durability and traditional aesthetics.^[2] Ergonomically, the rifle weighs approximately 7.5 pounds unloaded, providing a balanced feel that supports extended carry during hunts without excessive fatigue. The straight-line stock geometry and moderate length of pull contribute to manageable recoil, particularly in calibers like .30-06 Springfield, enabling quicker follow-up shots compared to bolt-action rifles.^[3] Controls, including the cross-bolt safety located near the trigger guard and the magazine release forward of the trigger, are positioned for intuitive operation, though the charging handle's rear placement requires a distinct pull motion distinct from manual actions.^[2] Overall handling is praised for field practicality, with the combination of weight distribution and semi-automatic operation suiting big-game pursuits in wooded terrain.^[16]

Variants and Chamberings

Standard Configurations

The Remington Model 742 was produced in standard configurations differentiated primarily by grade level and chambering options, with the ADL and BDL grades representing the most common factory offerings.^[1] The 742 ADL featured a walnut stock with basic finishing and included sling swivel studs, while the higher-end 742 BDL incorporated a checkered stock, cheekpiece for improved ergonomics, and enhanced metal finishing for a premium appearance.^[7] Both grades utilized a 22-inch barrel, gas-operated semi-automatic action, and 4-round detachable box magazine, emphasizing reliability for hunting applications.^[1][17] Standard chamberings encompassed .243 Winchester, 6mm Remington, .280 Remington, .30-06 Springfield, and .308 Winchester, allowing versatility across big game pursuits.^[1] Initial production in 1960 focused on .30-06 Springfield, .308 Winchester, and .280 Remington, with .243 Winchester and 6mm Remington added later in the decade to broaden appeal for varmint and deer hunting.^[11] Carbine variants, such as the 742C and 742CDL, deviated from the standard by employing an 18.5-inch barrel for maneuverability in dense cover, maintaining the same action and magazine capacity but weighing approximately 7.25 pounds.^[7] These configurations were designed for take-down maintenance, facilitating field disassembly without specialized tools.^[2]

Special Editions and Accessories

The Remington Model 742 was produced in several commemorative editions, including the 150th Anniversary model released in January 1966. This limited-run variant featured BDL-grade specifications with high-polish bluing, checkered select walnut stocks, and was offered in both right- and left-hand actions, chambered exclusively in .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester.^[2] Approximately 1,500 units of similar limited editions were produced in later years for related models, but the 742's anniversary release emphasized premium finishing on the receiver and barrel. Additional special editions included the Canadian Centennial variant in 1967, which incorporated engraved markings commemorating the event, and the 1976 Bicentennial model honoring the 200th anniversary of the United States, both retaining standard Woodsmaster configurations with enhanced cosmetic detailing such as gold-inlaid inscriptions on select examples.^[1] These editions were marketed to collectors and hunters seeking distinctive aesthetics without altering core mechanical features.^[18] Factory accessories for the Model 742 encompassed detachable four-round box magazines in steel construction, sling swivel studs integrated into the fore-end and buttstock, and optional hooded front sights for improved field visibility.^[19] The receiver's drilled-and-tapped design requires a Weaver-style or Remington-specific base along with 1-inch rings to support aftermarket scope mounts from manufacturers like Redfield and Weaver, facilitating optical enhancements for hunting applications.^[20] Replacement components, including action bars tailored to specific calibers such as .280 Remington and .30-06 Springfield, along with synthetic or walnut stocks, continue to be supplied by specialized vendors for maintenance and customization.^[21][22]

Performance and User Experience

Hunting and Practical Applications

The Remington Model 742, a gas-operated semi-automatic rifle, excelled in hunting applications for medium and large game, particularly whitetail deer in dense woodlands, where its rapid follow-up shot capability provided an advantage over manual actions for pursuing moving targets.^[3][23] Hunters reported successful harvests, such as heart shots at 100 yards with .30-06 chamberings, leveraging the rifle's design for rugged field use.^[2][24] Its mild recoil impulse, resulting from the gas system dissipating energy before reaching the shooter's shoulder, enabled sustained accuracy during sequences of fire, making it suitable for scenarios involving multiple game animals or errant initial shots.^[3][23] Typical groupings of 2 to 3 inches at 100 yards with factory loads supported ethical kills out to medium ranges of 200-350 yards, aligning with common big-game engagement distances in forested terrain.^[25][26][27] Beyond deer, the Model 742 saw practical employment against larger species like black bear or feral hogs in calibers such as .308 Winchester, where the detachable magazine's capacity—up to four rounds standard, with optional 10- or 20-round extensions—facilitated efficient reloading in dynamic hunts.^[28][29] However, its utility was constrained to non-precision roles, as inherent mechanical tolerances prioritized reliability over sub-minute-of-angle performance.^[30][31] Regular maintenance, including chamber cleaning to prevent extraction failures from carbon buildup, was essential for consistent operation in adverse weather or after prolonged exposure to fouling.^[23][32]

Reliability Factors and Maintenance

The Remington Model 742's reliability stems primarily from its direct impingement gas system, which, while functional, is prone to fouling accumulation from powder residue and carbon buildup in the gas port, cylinder, and bolt carrier assembly, necessitating frequent cleaning to prevent extraction failures and short-stroking.^[33] Overgassing exacerbates this, as the design provides insufficient dwell time for complete pressure bleed-off before extraction begins, leading to inconsistent cycling with varying ammunition loads or environmental conditions such as cold weather or dirt ingress.^[33] User reports consistently attribute jams—often dubbed "Jam-o-matic" behavior—to neglected maintenance rather than inherent design flaws, with worn receiver rails emerging as a durability limiter after 500–1,000 rounds if lubrication is inadequate, causing bolt binding.^[3][34][14] Key maintenance practices include full disassembly annually or after 200–300 rounds, focusing on de-greasing the trigger group, gas system, and action bars with solvent, followed by sparse application of light gun oil to rails and moving parts to avoid excess that attracts debris.^[35] The rifle's take-down design facilitates barrel and action removal for access, but chamber cleaning demands particular attention, as rust or residue buildup—facilitated by muzzle-end-only solvent passage—commonly causes case sticking; a chamber brush and dry patches are essential post-firing.^[2][36] Gas ports must be cleared of obstructions, and magazines inspected for bends, as deformed followers impede feeding.^[37] Proper upkeep, including recoil spring replacement every 1,000–2,000 rounds, extends service life significantly, rendering the Model 742 dependable for low-volume hunting use despite its sensitivity compared to manual actions.^[14][38]

Criticisms and Limitations

Common Mechanical Issues

The Remington Model 742 semi-automatic rifle is prone to jamming, often attributed to its gas-operated system accumulating carbon fouling on the bolt lock surfaces and interrupted threads, exacerbated by blowback during operation.^[28] Users frequently report failures to feed or cycle properly when the rifle is dirty, over-oiled, or fitted with worn or bent magazines, with unclean gas ports contributing to short-stroking of the action.^[37] Malfunctioning magazines and sensitivity to specific ammunition types have led to the rifle's nickname "Jam-o-matic" among owners.^[3] Extraction and ejection failures are recurrent, stemming from pitted, rusted, or fouled chambers, which are challenging to clean effectively due to the design requiring muzzle-end access rather than breech removal.^[36] Worn extractors, damaged bolt faces, or weakened ejector springs can compound these issues, sometimes resulting in mangled receiver lugs or stuck cases that necessitate chamber brushing after every few rounds of heavy use.^{[39] [40]} Prolonged use often leads to wear on the receiver rails, which guide the bolt carrier and can cause inconsistent cycling if excessively eroded.^[41] While proper maintenance mitigates many problems, parts availability for repairs remains limited, highlighting inherent design vulnerabilities in reliability for high-volume shooting.^[42]

Accuracy and Durability Concerns

The Remington Model 742 semi-automatic rifle exhibited accuracy limitations inherent to its slip-fit barrel design, where the barrel extension is not threaded into the receiver but secured via a takedown nut, leading to potential misalignment under heat or vibration.^[43] User reports frequently cite loose takedown nuts as a primary cause of poor grouping, with tightening often restoring sub-2-inch groups at 100 yards, reflecting standards of the era when such performance was deemed adequate for hunting rifles.^[25] However, thermal expansion could exacerbate issues from imprecise barrel shank-to-receiver fit, causing groups to "walk" or expand to 5-6 inches as the barrel warmed, indicative of bending rather than inherent rifling flaws.^[44] While some well-maintained examples achieved consistent 1.5-inch three-shot groups at 100 yards, the model was not engineered for sub-MOA precision, prioritizing rapid follow-up shots over benchrest accuracy suitable for big-game hunting at typical ranges under 200 yards.^[45] Forum consensus, drawn from extensive user experiences, underscores that expectations of modern precision optics compatibility often reveal the 742's dated tolerances, with split case necks occasionally linked to over-polished chambers from prior repairs rather than factory defects.^[33] Durability concerns stem from the gas-operated system's propensity for rapid fouling, where blowback deposits carbon on rotating lock surfaces and gas ports, accelerating wear if not meticulously cleaned after every few dozen rounds.^[28] This design flaw contributed to its reputation as a "Jamomatic," with an estimated 15-20% of units prone to extraction failures, stuck cases, and mangled receiver lugs from accumulated residue pulling rims off brass.^[46][3] The non-adjustable gas system rendered it sensitive to ammunition variations, exacerbating reliability in field conditions without specialized loads, while overall service life was curtailed by mediocre metallurgy and tolerances compared to bolt-action contemporaries.^[47] Former Remington warranty technicians noted inherent flaws leading to short operational longevity for high-volume use, though low-round-count hunting applications could extend usability with rigorous maintenance.^[48] Parts availability remains a post-discontinuation challenge, compounding long-term durability for owners.^[42]

Legacy and Market Impact

Successor Models and Discontinuation

The Remington Model 742 was discontinued on December 31, 1980, after two decades of production totaling approximately 1.2 million units.^[1][7] This marked the end of the original gas-operated autoloading rifle line derived from the earlier Model 740, with sales of remaining inventory continuing into 1981.^[13] It was directly succeeded by the Model 7400, introduced in early 1981 as the standard Woodsmaster configuration, and the Model Four, a deluxe variant of the 7400 featuring enhanced wood finishes and checkering akin to the discontinued 742 BDL grade.^[7][2] The Model 7400 retained the overall gas-operated, semi-automatic design but incorporated key mechanical refinements, including a multi-lug rotating bolt head replacing the 742's interrupted-thread locking lugs, which improved strength and reduced headspace issues reported in the predecessor.^[49][3] Chamberings remained similar, emphasizing big-game cartridges like .30-06 Springfield and .280 Remington, with the successors expanding options to include .270 Winchester.^[7] These changes addressed chronic reliability concerns in the 742, such as gas system fouling and bolt carrier wear, though the 7400 lineage persisted until its own replacement by the Model 750 in 2006, which further modernized the action with a dual-gas port system.^[3][50] Production of the Model Four ended in 1987, while the 7400 continued until 2005, reflecting Remington's iterative evolution toward more robust autoloaders amid competitive pressures from bolt-action dominance in the hunting rifle market.^[7]

Collectibility and Modern Value

The Remington Model 742 exhibits limited collectibility due to its substantial production run of approximately 1.4 million units from 1960 to 1980, which saturates the market and diminishes scarcity appeal.^[3] Collector interest centers on well-preserved examples, early serial numbers, or those retaining original finishes and accessories, as wear from field use is common given the rifle's hunting-oriented design.^[51] Its reputation for occasional jamming further tempers enthusiasm, positioning it more as a nostalgic shooter than a high-end investment piece among firearm enthusiasts.^[3] Special editions enhance desirability; the 1966 150th anniversary commemorative variant, limited to 11,412 units in .30-06 Springfield with embellished engravings, fetches premiums for its historical tie to Remington's founding. Similarly, BDL Deluxe models with checkered walnut stocks and engraved receivers command higher values than standard ADL configurations, often 20-50% more in comparable condition, reflecting added aesthetic and ergonomic refinements.^[52] Rarer calibers like .280 Remington or 6mm Remington also draw niche collectors, as production favored popular rounds such as .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester.^[53] In the modern market as of 2025, used standard Model 742 rifles average $460 to $550, with values stable or slightly appreciating for clean specimens amid steady demand from budget-conscious hunters and tinkerers.^[54][55] Auction realizations for deluxe or low-serial examples range from $700 to $1,100, influenced by provenance, bore condition, and absence of modifications.^[56][52] Overall resale remains utilitarian rather than speculative, with prices buoyed by the rifle's enduring utility for deer hunting despite successor models like the 7400 offering refinements.^[57]