I own all manner of rifles, old, new, bolts, levers, autos, some collectors, some not. Growing up in the Rockies I don't recall ever seeing a pump rifle. My grandfather shot a model 8 35 Rem, and yes, he took elk beyond 200 yards regularly with it, so I've always had a soft spot for "that" semi auto, otherwise gave them about as much thought as sporting pump rifles. IOW, none. Here about six years ago I was in my friends gun store in SLC, which has been in business about 90 years. They have an inventory of fabulous old collectible rifles. I was looking for a 336 in 35 Rem, and he brings a mutton leg case out to the counterr and takes out a 1918 C grade Remington model 14 in maybe 85-90% condition. Heretofore I had only ever seen one other model 14. The rifle went home with me, and now when ever I handle that rifle I am overwhelmed by the workmanship, the balance, and its trim lines. It's quite literally, IMO, as close to a nice upland double gun as any rifle could be. If I were ever forced to give up all my rifles but one, it would likely be the last to go. I think modern Remington pumps are clubs, but the old saw about not making them like they used to applies to the model 14 in spades. It goes with me elk hunting every year. So does my 35AI, and sometimes my BLR .358 but if I'm walking timber, the Model 14 is in my hand. It beats the heck out of any lever gun I own for fast shooting.
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