The Remington 572 Fieldmaster is a venerable name in the world of .22 rifles. This semi-automatic, tube-fed firearm has earned a reputation for reliability, affordability, and surprisingly good accuracy. But how does it hold up against modern competition? This in-depth review will explore the Fieldmaster's strengths and weaknesses, helping you decide if it's the right .22 for you. We'll examine its history, features, performance, and ultimately, whether it deserves a place in your gun safe.
History and Heritage of the Remington 572 Fieldmaster
The Remington 572 Fieldmaster boasts a rich history, tracing its roots back to a lineage of reliable .22 rifles. While not as iconic as some of Remington's other offerings, it carved its own niche. Introduced decades ago, this model capitalized on the enduring appeal of the .22 LR cartridge, offering a robust and relatively inexpensive platform for plinking, small game hunting, and target shooting. Its straightforward design emphasized reliability over flashy features, a philosophy that resonated with many shooters.
Key Features and Specifications of the Remington 572 Fieldmaster
The Remington 572 Fieldmaster is a semi-automatic rifle, meaning it automatically loads the next round after each shot. Key specifications generally include:
- Caliber: .22 LR
- Action: Semi-automatic
- Magazine: Tube-fed under the barrel
- Capacity: Typically 15 rounds (depending on model)
- Barrel Length: Varies by model, often around 20 inches.
- Weight: Approximately 5-6 pounds (depending on model)
- Sights: Typically includes adjustable iron sights.
This simplicity is part of the rifle's charm. It's easy to clean, maintain, and operate, making it ideal for beginners and experienced shooters alike. The tube magazine is simple and reliable, although it does limit the capacity compared to some modern detachable magazine designs.
Understanding the Remington 572's Action
The semi-automatic action is the heart of the Fieldmaster. It utilizes the blowback operating system – a relatively simple and reliable mechanism. This system works by using the force of the fired cartridge to cycle the action, ejecting the spent casing and loading a fresh round. While this isn't the most sophisticated action, its simplicity contributes to the rifle's ruggedness and reliability.
Performance and Accuracy of the Remington 572 Fieldmaster
While not designed for long-range precision, the Remington 572 Fieldmaster delivers respectable accuracy at typical .22 LR ranges. Many owners report accuracy within 1-2 inches at 50 yards with quality ammunition. This is certainly suitable for plinking, small game hunting, and casual target shooting. The accuracy, however, is heavily influenced by the ammunition used. Higher-quality ammunition tends to yield better results.
Ammunition Considerations
The .22 LR cartridge is known for its variability in terms of performance. Using high-quality ammunition such as CCI Mini-Mags, or Remington Golden Bullets, can significantly improve accuracy and reliability. Conversely, using low-quality ammunition might lead to malfunctions or inconsistent performance.
Pros and Cons of the Remington 572 Fieldmaster
Like any firearm, the Remington 572 Fieldmaster has its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
- Affordable: It's generally one of the more budget-friendly semi-automatic .22 rifles on the market.
- Reliable: Known for its straightforward design and consistent function.
- Easy to Maintain: Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward processes.
- Good Accuracy (for its class): Provides acceptable accuracy for its intended purposes.
- Classic Design: Appeals to those who appreciate traditional firearm aesthetics.
Cons:
- Limited Capacity: The tube magazine holds fewer rounds compared to detachable magazine designs.
- Iron Sights Only (typically): Scope mounting options are available, but iron sights are standard.
- May Not Be Ideal for All Applications: Not suited for long-range precision shooting or high-volume target practice.
The Remington 572 Fieldmaster: Is it Right for You?
The Remington 572 Fieldmaster is a solid choice for certain shooters. If you're looking for an affordable, reliable, and easy-to-maintain .22 rifle for plinking, small game hunting, or casual target shooting, it's a strong contender. However, if you need a high-capacity rifle, advanced features like adjustable stocks or optics, or top-tier accuracy, you may want to consider other options.
Alternatives to Consider
Depending on your needs and budget, several alternative .22 rifles deserve consideration:
- Ruger 10/22: A highly customizable and popular semi-automatic .22 rifle with a large aftermarket support system.
- CZ 455: A bolt-action rifle known for its accuracy and modularity.
- Henry .22 Lever Actions: Classic lever-action rifles with a distinct aesthetic appeal.
Ultimately, the best .22 rifle for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. This Remington 572 Fieldmaster Review offers a starting point for informed decision-making. Thorough research and even hands-on experience before purchasing is always recommended.