Guns.com Vault Auction: Remington Model 8

The Vault Auctions are reserved for the rarest, most collectible firearms that come through the Guns.com Vault, and up for grabs is a gorgeous example of the first semi-auto hunting rifle to gain popularity with American hunters. Remington began manufacturing the Remington Model 8 back in 1905, and this premier-grade piece is a stunning specimen.

Table of Contents

Video Overview
Brief History
Detailed Images
Key Auction Details
Key Features

Video Overview

Brief History

Although it was produced by Remington Arms, the Remington Model 8 is a John Browning design patented in October 1900. Browning sold his patent to Remington, which in 1905 introduced the firearm as the Remington Autoloading Rifle.

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The long-recoil-operated rifle features a 22-inch sleeved barrel and was chambered in either .35 Remington – like this model up for auction – .32, .30, or .25 Remington. The design became the first successful semi-automatic rifle sold commercially in the U.S., and the name was changed to “Remington Model 8” in 1911.

The history of the Model 8 is interesting, but its the engraving that sets this particular model apart from the rest. (All Photos: Jake Hageman/Guns.com)

Under an agreement with Remington, Belgian firearms maker FN also produced the rifle as the FN Browning 1900 for foreign markets, but fewer than 5,000 were made compared to more than 80,000 Remington Model 8s sold in the U.S.

This Remington Model 8 is serial number 9393. It has some mild blemishes and dings from use but no signs of cracking or rust. The elegant English-style straight stock and factory hand-engraved receiver show exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Overall, this rifle is in excellent shape for being some 120 years old.

Detailed Images

Here are some detailed images showcasing this antique Remington Model 8 and some of the beautiful engraving.

Every square inch of this rifle has been detailed by a true craftsman.

The rifle still maintains a reputation as accurate long gun despite being over 100 years old.

Looking inside the chamber, it appears the rifle has seen little use, despite its age. While the next owner might not want to trapse through a field with it, it is nice to know that it's a function rifle.

Even the safety selector, which resembles an AK pattern rifle, got the engraving.

This could be yours, starting August 3rd.

Key Auction Details

Bidding starts Aug. 3 and wraps up Aug. 9 on this historic rifle. With bids starting at just 1 cent, it's easy to get in on the action, so don't miss your chance to add this beautiful Remington Model 8 to your collection.

Here are some of the key details that make this a particularly special find.

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Key Features

Great Condition: This is a well-preserved example of the Model 8, with wear and minor blemishes from age but no rust or cracking.

Fine Craftsmanship: Hand-engraved details accentuate the entire receiver, while the English-style straight stock displays beautiful wood grain and checkering.

Innovative Design: The long-recoil-operated auto-loading design was a revolutionary improvement for commercial hunting rifles at the time.

Historical Significance: The Model 8 was the first commercial semi-auto rifle to take off with hunters in the U.S.

Alexander Reville

Alexander Reville is a writer and content creator for Guns.com who transitioned from the warehouse to the content team fueled by a passion for American history and firearms. A proud graduate of Marion Military Institute and a former minor league hockey player, he remains active as a firearms instructor and private security contractor.

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