Lot 598: Factory Engraved and Gold Inlaid Remington Model 740 FDL Rifle

A product of the Remington Custom Shop, the Premier Grade represented the top tier of Remington's factory offerings. Starting with a full top-to-bottom hand fitting of all components in the firearm, the Premier arm would also receive detailed engraving and top rate gold inlay, in addition to a very fancy walnut stock; the metal work alone could represent 80 man-hours of work. The receiver coverage is over 95% fine scroll and punch dots with hand-engraved model markings/serial number, and both sides showing three gold inlaid scene panels. The right side scenes warrant particular note; in defiance of the typical arrangement of three disconnected scenes, the right panels all share a single background. The left side bears the initials "RPR" (Robert P. Runge). Checkered, fancy, American walnut stock with hard rubber Remington grip cap, blank inscription panel and a serrated plastic buttplate. This phenomenal master engraved rifle is consecutively serial numbered to the following lot.

Excellent with 97% plus original blue finish and a few minor handling marks overall. The engraving is all sharply executed including the fine detail in the background scenes and on the animals. The stock is also excellent with a few light dents, crisp checkering and fine grain. Mechanically excellent.