The Remington R51: Is this $200 9mm Handgun Worth Buying?

Published on April 8, 2020
Duration: 11:25

This review of the Remington R51 highlights significant reliability issues and a difficult field stripping process. Despite its low price point and unique John Pedersen-designed hesitation locking system, the pistol is deemed functionally a failure due to frequent malfunctions like failures to eject and feed. The reviewer, an experienced firearms expert from TFB TV, found the shooting experience uncomfortable, particularly due to the grip safety, and the maintenance process to be exceptionally challenging.

Quick Summary

The Remington R51 is a budget 9mm handgun ($200-$250) featuring John Pedersen's 'hesitation locking' system for reduced recoil. However, expert reviews highlight severe reliability issues, including frequent malfunctions, and an uncomfortable shooting experience due to its grip safety and trigger. Field stripping is also described as exceptionally difficult, making it functionally a failure despite its unique design.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and History
  2. 00:47Design and Hesitation Locking
  3. 02:02Size and Capacity Comparison
  4. 02:49Reliability Issues
  5. 03:13Features and Ergonomics
  6. 04:26Shooting Experience
  7. 05:19Maintenance and Field Stripping
  8. 06:12Grip Safety Flaw
  9. 07:21Performance Testing
  10. 09:38Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reliability issues with the Remington R51?

The Remington R51 is plagued by frequent malfunctions, including failures to eject, failures to feed, and failures to return to battery. These issues were present even after a 200-round break-in period and persist when loaded to its full 7+1 capacity.

How does the Remington R51 compare in size and capacity to other handguns?

The R51 is approximately 1.0 inch wide, making it slimmer than a Glock 19. However, its 7+1 round capacity for 9mm Luger is significantly lower than modern micro-compact pistols like the Sig P365.

What is the 'hesitation locking' system on the Remington R51?

The hesitation locking system, designed by John Pedersen, is a unique action that delays the unlocking of the breech block until after the bullet has exited the barrel. This aims to reduce felt recoil and allow for a lower bore axis.

Is the Remington R51 comfortable to shoot?

No, the shooting experience is described as uncomfortable. The grip safety can pinch the web of the hand, and the trigger has a vague 5lb break with significant overtravel and a non-tactile reset.

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