E. Remington & Sons manufactured approximately 5,000 Keene magazine rifles (in all configurations) between 1880-1883. This model was the first magazine fed rifle produced in quantity by Remington. This design was Remington's first attempt at producing repeating rifles to compete with Winchester's lever actions. It was designed by John W. Keene (d. 1880) of New Jersey in the 1870s. They were entered by Remington in the 1878 and 1881 magazine rifle trials. This example has a shorter barrel than any of the standard variants. A tubular magazine and carbine style forward barrel band like those used on classic lever action saddle ring carbines and many shotguns is fitted below the barrel that is loaded using a loading gate at the bottom of the action much like standard slide action shotguns. The hammer at the back of the bolt must be manually cocked for each shot. Production was limited in part due to competition with the Winchester-Hotchkiss rifles as well as the more modern Remington-Lee. They were used by the Indian Police and others in the West in the late 19th century. Features a straight grip stock and round barrel with fixed front and folding ladder rear sights. The bolt has the Remington address and Keene patent markings, and the "45/70" caliber designation is marked on the left of the receiver. A circular collection tag stamped "0264" is hanging from the trigger guard.

Exceptionally fine, retains 80% plus original blue finish with scattered mild freckling and smooth brown patina on the balance, 70% plus vivid case colors on the hammer, smooth gray patina on the some of the exposed surfaces of the bright components and scattered light pitting on the bolt handle, with sharp markings and edges in the metal overall. The stock is excellent with a few nicks and handling marks, and distinct edges overall. Mechanically fine.