Remington R51 Review

Published on April 14, 2014
Duration: 26:12

The Remington R51, a subcompact 9mm pistol based on John Pedersen's early 20th-century design, suffers from severe reliability issues including out-of-battery firings, light primer strikes, and feeding failures. Despite an interesting historical mechanism and a slim profile, internal machining flaws and a mushy trigger with poor reset detract from its performance. Due to significant safety and functional concerns observed across multiple samples, the R51 is not recommended for self-defense or concealed carry.

Quick Summary

The Remington R51, based on John Pedersen's early 1900s design, faces significant reliability and safety concerns. Issues include out-of-battery firing, light primer strikes, and trigger problems. Across multiple samples, persistent failures like bulged casings and slide sticking were observed, leading experts to not recommend it for concealed carry.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Historical Context
  2. 02:18Design and Ergonomics
  3. 05:28Trigger and Range Performance
  4. 07:10Reliability and Safety Issues
  5. 14:43Field Stripping and Internals
  6. 19:11Final Verdict

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reliability issues with the Remington R51?

The Remington R51 has demonstrated severe reliability concerns, including out-of-battery firing, frequent light primer strikes, failures to feed, and double feeds. These issues suggest potential problems with recoil spring tension and overall system function.

How does the Remington R51's trigger compare to other subcompacts?

The R51's trigger is described as unusual and mushy, lacking a distinct audible or tactile reset. It also exhibits significant lateral play, which can negatively impact shooting accuracy, especially during rapid fire scenarios.

Is the Remington R51 safe for concealed carry?

Based on extensive testing across multiple samples, the Remington R51 is not recommended for self-defense or concealed carry due to critical safety issues like out-of-battery firing and significant reliability failures. The firearm exhibited dangerously bulged casings.

What is the historical basis for the Remington R51?

The modern Remington R51 is based on the original Model 51 pistol designed by John Pedersen in the early 1900s. The original Model 51 was produced from 1918 to 1927 and chambered in .32 ACP or .380 ACP, featuring Pedersen's unique breech-lock mechanism.

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