Understanding the Enduring Appeal of the Remington Nylon 66
The Remington Nylon 66 is more than just a rifle; it’s a legend. Beloved for its lightweight design, rugged reliability, and distinctive nylon stock, this classic .22 caliber semi-automatic has graced shooting ranges and hunting grounds for decades. Owning a Remington Nylon 66 is like owning a piece of history, and like any firearm, it demands respect and proper care. This guide will serve as your essential resource, mirroring the wisdom found within the original Remington Nylon 66 manual, helping you to understand, maintain, and enjoy your rifle for years to come.
The Remington Nylon 66 wasn’t just a leap forward; it was a paradigm shift in firearms design. Introduced in the late 1950s, it quickly gained popularity, and the reasons were numerous. The most obvious was its innovative use of a nylon stock, a groundbreaking material at the time. This offered significant advantages, reducing weight and increasing durability compared to traditional wood stocks. This choice of material also helped keep production costs down, making the Nylon 66 an affordable option for many.
Beyond the stock, the rifle’s design was elegantly simple and remarkably effective. The receiver was made of a robust, lightweight material that further contributed to its overall portability. Its semi-automatic action was both reliable and easy to use, chambering .22 Long Rifle ammunition. These features, combined with its accuracy and appealing aesthetics, cemented the Nylon 66’s status as a classic.
Throughout its production run, the Remington Nylon 66 underwent a few cosmetic variations. Most notably, the models were differentiated by the color of the nylon stock. Two of the most well-known colors were the classic Mohawk Brown and the sleek Apache Black. There were other variations as well, including the Seneca Green model. These different models, while visually distinct, operate under largely the same principles.
Before diving into any specifics of the Remington Nylon 66, it is vital to remember: **Firearm safety is paramount.** Whether you are an experienced shooter or a newcomer, understanding and practicing safe gun handling is non-negotiable.
Safety First: A Non-Negotiable Priority
Before even thinking about handling a Remington Nylon 66, or any firearm, you must commit to safe gun handling practices. This is the most crucial section of the article. Here are some fundamental rules:
Fundamental Rules
- Always treat every gun as if it is loaded. This simple principle is the cornerstone of gun safety. Never assume a firearm is unloaded. Inspect it every time you pick it up.
- Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. This means keeping the firearm pointed in a direction where an unintentional discharge would cause minimal harm or damage. Never point a gun at anything you are not willing to destroy.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Until you are ready to fire, your finger should be straight and resting along the side of the receiver.
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond it. Know your surroundings, including any potential obstacles or hazards. Also understand that bullets can travel far, and be aware of what might be in the line of fire.
- Wear eye and ear protection when shooting. These protect your eyes from debris and your ears from the damaging effects of noise.
Beyond these foundational rules, familiarity with the specific features of the Remington Nylon 66 is essential.
Safely Handling and Managing Ammunition
Using the proper ammunition is critical for safe and effective use of your Remington Nylon 66. Always use .22 Long Rifle ammunition. Never attempt to load or fire any other type of cartridge. Examine each round before loading it to ensure it isn’t damaged. Store your ammunition in a dry, secure location, away from heat and direct sunlight, and out of reach of children. Do not mix different types of ammunition in your rifle. Be certain that the ammunition matches the intended use.
Securing your Firearms
Responsible gun ownership includes securely storing firearms. A gun safe is the most secure method. The Nylon 66 should be unloaded and stored separately from ammunition. If a gun safe isn’t available, consider a trigger lock or cable lock to prevent unauthorized access. When transporting your Nylon 66, always keep it unloaded in a case or container.
Operating Your Remington Nylon 66 with Confidence
Once you’ve thoroughly ingrained safety protocols, you can begin to understand the operation of your Remington Nylon 66. This section will cover everything you need to load, aim, and fire the rifle.
Loading and Unloading Procedures
First, it is essential to ensure the rifle is unloaded before beginning the loading process. Check the chamber and magazine to confirm.
To load the rifle:
- Insert the magazine into the magazine well, ensuring it clicks into place.
- Pull back the charging handle (located on the right side of the receiver) fully and release it. This will chamber a round from the magazine.
- The rifle is now loaded and ready to fire.
To unload the rifle:
- Point the muzzle in a safe direction.
- Press the magazine release button to remove the magazine.
- Pull back the charging handle to eject the round in the chamber.
- Visually inspect the chamber to ensure it is empty.
- Consider leaving the bolt open or partially open for a few minutes to prevent the buildup of condensation.
Aiming and Taking the Shot
The Remington Nylon 66 is equipped with iron sights. Learning to use them effectively is critical for accuracy.
To aim:
- Align the front sight post with the rear sight notch.
- Ensure the target is in sharp focus.
- Place the front sight post on the target.
- Gently squeeze the trigger, smoothly and deliberately. Avoid jerking the trigger, which can throw off your aim.
Understanding the Magazine
The magazine of the Remington Nylon 66 is a critical component. Always inspect it for damage. If a magazine is damaged, it can affect feeding. To load, simply insert rounds from the top. It is designed to be easily loaded, removed, and inserted. Ensure the magazine is clean, and any debris is removed.
If you experience any issues with the magazine, such as failure to feed or failure to eject, consider performing a full cleaning of the magazine and other parts.
Maintaining Your Remington Nylon 66: A Guide to Care and Cleaning
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your Remington Nylon 66 functioning reliably.
Field Stripping for Cleaning
Before cleaning your rifle, you’ll need to disassemble it. This is often called field stripping. This step-by-step guide covers the basics:
- Ensure the rifle is unloaded, following all safety protocols.
- Remove the magazine.
- Press the button on the rear of the receiver to release the stock.
- Pull the stock downwards and away from the action.
- The action is now ready for cleaning.
Cleaning Your Rifle: A Detailed Process
To clean your Remington Nylon 66, you will need a cleaning rod, appropriate brushes, cleaning patches, gun solvent, and lubricating oil. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Cleaning the Bore: Attach a brass brush to the cleaning rod. Dip the brush in gun solvent. Insert the brush into the bore from the breech (the rear of the barrel) and push it all the way through to the muzzle. Repeat this several times. Follow with cleaning patches pushed through with the cleaning rod until the patches come out clean.
- Cleaning the Receiver: Use a solvent-soaked patch to wipe down the interior of the receiver, paying attention to any areas where residue may have accumulated. Use a brush to scrub away any stubborn build-up.
- Cleaning the Bolt: Disassemble the bolt according to the manufacturer’s instructions (consult the manual or online resources if needed), and carefully clean all parts with solvent.
- Lubrication: After cleaning, apply a thin coat of lubricating oil to all moving parts, including the bolt, receiver rails, and trigger mechanism. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as excess oil can attract dirt and debris.
- Reassembly: Reassemble the rifle in reverse order of disassembly, carefully aligning all parts. Ensure all screws are properly tightened.
Maintaining and Storing Your Firearm Effectively
To properly store the Remington Nylon 66, make sure it is clean and lightly oiled. Store it in a safe, secure location, such as a gun safe or lockbox. Never store the rifle loaded. Regular inspection is also critical to prevent long-term problems. Also, ensure the storage area is protected from extreme temperatures and humidity, as these can damage the rifle.
Resolving Common Issues with Your Rifle
Even with proper care, you might encounter occasional problems with your Remington Nylon 66. This section will provide basic troubleshooting tips.
Dealing with Feeding Problems
If your rifle fails to feed rounds properly:
- Ensure the magazine is correctly inserted.
- Check the magazine for damage or debris and clean it if needed.
- Check the chamber for obstruction.
- Clean the bolt and receiver.
- Try different types of ammunition.
Addressing Ejection Issues
If your rifle fails to eject spent casings:
- Ensure the extractor is clean and functioning correctly.
- Check the ejector for damage.
- Clean the chamber thoroughly.
- Use different ammunition brands.
Addressing Misfires
If you experience misfires:
- Ensure the firing pin is clean and moves freely.
- Try a different box of ammunition.
When Professional Assistance is Required
If you encounter persistent problems or suspect a serious mechanical issue, do not attempt to repair the rifle yourself. It’s time to consult with a qualified gunsmith. Do not attempt to modify the rifle beyond the manufacturer’s specifications.
Finding the Manual: A Resource for Every Owner
Having the original Remington Nylon 66 manual is invaluable. It contains detailed information about your firearm, including safety guidelines, operating instructions, and maintenance procedures.
Where to Find Your Manual
Original Remington Nylon 66 manuals can sometimes be found through online auction sites, such as eBay. Gun shows and gun stores may also offer copies. Searching for the actual manual by its original title, “Remington Nylon 66 Rifle Manual” is a good idea.
Digital Resources
If you cannot locate a physical manual, many websites offer digital copies or related information. A simple online search using the keyword “Remington Nylon 66 manual PDF” may lead you to a downloadable copy. Online gun forums and communities are also a valuable source of information, where you can often find answers to your questions and discuss issues with other owners.
Alternatives to Consider
Should you not be able to find an original manual, consider books on gun maintenance and general firearms. Also, many instructional videos can be found online demonstrating how to clean, maintain, and operate the Remington Nylon 66. Be certain of your source to avoid incorrect or dangerous instructions.
Final Thoughts and Responsible Ownership
Owning and responsibly handling a Remington Nylon 66 is a commitment. This classic rifle is a testament to enduring design and quality. Always remember to prioritize safety, both for yourself and those around you. Regular maintenance and a deep understanding of your rifle’s mechanics will ensure its longevity and your continued enjoyment. By following the guidance in this article and the principles found in the Remington Nylon 66 manual, you can confidently operate, care for, and troubleshoot this timeless firearm. The Remington Nylon 66 is a great rifle, and by following safe firearm guidelines, you can enjoy it for a lifetime.
