Remington R51 Gen 2 Review

[@sootch00]

Please read before you comment: While this particular R51 Gen worked well, I do not recommend it for a Self Defense Option which I state clearly in the video. There have been too many problems of this pistol from other sources on earlier reviews. It's possible the Remington has made changes to ensure better reliabiity but more samples need to be tested. Thanks.

[@jllucci]

Sootch, I wouldn't recommend any pistol I'm about to carry without testing it thoroughly. Browing Hi-power, Colt 1911, ect. each pistol is an individual assemblage of parts one will work better than the other and somewhere along the line will exhibit a failure mode. I've figured my particular example of R-51 out. I know what causes it to fail. I feel comfortable enough to carry it and more importantly, hit what I'm aiming at. My one gripe with the design, is Remington should have stolen the glock trigger safety. The grip safely is a anachronism from 1911 Horse pistol days. A quick grab from a IWB conceal carry holster yields a gun going hot straight down before it comes up. If you haven't trained enough to keep your booger hook to stay off the trigger until the gun has cleared your body depending on where the holster lies, a bad grab could yield a shot to your femoral artery at the worst, and at the best some powder burns down your leg.

[@barnes-howardhuntingteam2141]

It's too much work to field strip it.

[@ericgray2038]

For somebody like me, it's not work, but fun. I love taking apart firearms and studying every individual part. The more unique, the more enjoyable.

[@badcompany3057]

I get the whole unique pistol thing, but really, what is the purpose of this contraption? What never asked question is this thing supposed to be the answer to?

[@z50com]

If it only had 1 malfunction in 600 rounds that's pretty dependable. . . I had a Colt 1911 Series 70 that was no where near as dependable!

[@scubaguy007]

I really want one for just the collectible factor. “The gun that killed Remington.”

[@ConcernedCitizen1957]

Gary Gutierrez Yeah, I'm wanting one as well for about the same reason, in other words, no real reason.

[@sweetcostarica]

Gary if you want a lemon just go to the grocery store.

[@kennethslumley]

Believe me I worked there at that plant in Huntsville Alabama. That's not the only thing that killed Remington (it helped) but very poor management and I mean piss poor management killed Remington. They destroyed a wonderful opportunity in the south (Huntsville). thair work ethics and emplyee turnover rate is the worst I've ever seen, and it's not the employees fault. That little flaccid penis that Huntsville calls a Mayer (TOMMY BATTLE'S) is usles as a 3 headed dick. The people have tried to reach out to him, but ole mister flaccid him self just won't hear it. Do your job Mr. Mayor , you can't be a floating turd all Damn time...

[@terrysaling3673]

kenneth s. lumley ...sounds like he won't be getting your vote in the next election.

[@ConcernedCitizen1957]

@@kennethslumley I have no experience with Remington except for a Walmart 870 which was a fine gun. Then about 4 years back I bought my Bushmaster XM-15 patrolman's carbine which came out of the same plant you are referring to and IT is a FINE weapon.

[@nedsnook6552]

My thoughts about MY Remington R51 9mm. Very ergonomic. One of the best fitting guns I’ve ever held in my hand. Twenty degree grip handle. Cutout/recessed rear trigger guard for middle finger, extension near bottom of grip to get pinkie and all three fingers on grip. Serrated front on grip. Memory pad/serration for index/trigger finger above and forward of trigger guard when keeping trigger finger out of trigger guard. Easiest slide to operate/rack on any handgun I’ve ever tried. Ambidextrous magazine release. Very accurate at the distance I’ve shot it of 7-10 yards. Does not prefer cheap steel case Ammo. But I have other semi autos (Browning & SCCY) that don’t digest steel case reliably also. So I avoid them. It works well with any premium Ammo and cheap round ball as long as they are brass casing. Great three dot white sights. Gun designed with adjustable No-snag sights and rounded edges all over gun. Very Low bore axis and minimum recoil lends itself to re-acquire target quickly on follow up shots. Neat throwback retro ‘50’s design kinda like a PPK James Bond Gun. Seven plus one capacity. Enough for me as I usually carry S&W .357 revolver or Colt 1911 .45acp. Reason I bought it was.... I was looking for 9mm only so I could shoot more often and cheaper. I liked the design, look, feel and price! Paid $204 New! Not the easiest to field strip, tho not impossible it is tricky and gets easier the more you do it. Not my most powerful handgun. Not the smallest gun I own. Not the highest value handgun I own. Not the the only gun I’d choose if I had to own just one gun. But it is fun to shoot. Low recoil. Cheaper to shoot than my bigger calibers. Reliable and I’m comfortable carrying it as a CCW. Respectfully Ned In NY

[@GBGuns]

I bought one purely out of curiosity and a love for things that are different. Mine performs about like yours, much better than others reported, but not 100%.

[@williamprince1114]

Once a pistol, particularly one meant as a personal defense weapon, gets a reputation for questionable reliability it is hard to shake. Just ask Taurus. Remington has done themselves incalculable harm with their quality issues the last 4 or 5 years. It will likely take them a decade of flawless guns to overcome this.

[@jllucci]

I don't disagree. I feel they rushed the gun to market in it's "alpha" stage before getting it to where it could be beta tested and work out all the kinks from up sizing the Peterson action from 380 to 9mm.

[@williamprince1114]

@Shooter Industries Taurus for many years suffered from inconsistent quality that was detrimental to their reputation. Even as recently as the last Olympics in Brazil they had issues with their firearms issued to Brazilian security and police forces. Google Brazilian Police recall Taurus 24/7 pistols. www.google.com/amp/s/www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2013/09/26/brazilian-police-recall-98000-taurus-247-ds-pistols/amp/

[@jeffwilson1217]

@Shooter Industries wouldn't even think about giving up my totally reliable pt111!

[@jeffwilson1217]

I must not be the only one who feels this way, by the number of holsters sold!

[@passdadutch88]

+jeff wilson i sold my pt111 real quick. after about 500 rounds started having all kinds of issues. Including light firing pin strikes on the primer. I always cleaned it after a session. That day i had 3 light strikes and two fail to ejects. I sold it a week later. Only Taurus i would consider now would be a 1911 or the pt92 series

[@HayesTech]

Nice to see this pistol finally do well. I am one of those that really wanted this one too succeed. At the prices you can find them at, it would make, at the least, a nice range gun/fun gun. And who knows, may the the kinks were finally fixed. Thanks again for an honest and thorough review.

[@jeffwilson1217]

Just came from the range. My r51 was, once again, flawless! Ran beautifully. Nice trigger, with hardly any muzzle flip.

[@henryfamularo2936]

Own one for over a year, great trigger, very accurate, no issues.

[@troyellis435]

That is not a great trigger. lol.

[@tedfritsch3340]

I've had mine for a year now, take it to the range every month, I've fired over 1k round in that baby, and have had no problems. I love how it feels in my meaty hand. Once you get the hang of cleaning it, it cleans up fast.

[@jllucci]

The biggest problem with the R 51 is the reviews seen by most people are done by less than 001% of all the users of the pistol out there. These reviews were done with very early production examples of the 2 Gen and there has been no follow-up since those reviews were made. Meanwhile, people keep clicking on these old reviews taking them as gospel and then reiterating how bad these single specimens were often without seeing or even shooting a specimen for themselves; however, what about the other 99% that you never hear from? Who actually bought the pistol and put more than a magazines worth of ammo through them? Who didn't chuck the gun out unnecessarily because of one stovepipe or bullet nosedive? I'll tell it to you straight I bought one. I wanted to find out why this gun was so "bad". What I found out is the gun is quite good for what it is, but it does have a quirk it only likes ammunition no longer than 28.17 mm. This quirk can also be compensated for by adjusting the tab at the front of the magazine so that longer bullets do not hit the tab. Yes it is a complicated design to field strip, but are you guys gonna plop down in the middle of a gunfight and field strip your weapon? Really?

[@sootch00]

Thanks John! I appreciate your comment and the tip about the magazine. I have a suspension that Remington has made changes to the newer production R51 Gen 2 pistol. You're correct that most of the Gen 2 problems shown on videos are over 2 years old. I'm planning on buying one from a local gun shop and seeing what results I get plus continue shooting this pistol and reporting back the findings. I appreciate your comments through the tread. I've been taking a lot of heat from people who didn't watch the video all the way through and started name calling! lol! Take care Brother!

[@Thebeachjam]

Hey john, I just got mine really like how it feels in my hands and low recoil compared to what I'm used to..I had to send mine in for repair however..It functions great with 6 in the mag..when I an 7 slide won't go back all the way and jambs up?

[@vodkaone1053]

@John Lucci Actually John, the first reviews about this gun were glowing (reduced recoil because of low center of gravity, pederson device, light weight, reliable, etc.) It was the buying public that discovered the gun did not live up to the reviews. Not even close. They returned them in droves, waited months for the replacements, and found they still didn't work. Returned them, waited more months, and still got guns that didn't work. I learned that many magazine writers do not tell the truth about guns they SUPPOSEDLY review, because they want company advertising. Everyone likes to stay in business and keep getting paid, but I learned not to trust a lot of previously trusted reviewers. It was a great lesson. I cut from 9 gun magazines to 2, and saved A fortune in subscription fees. Here's a hint from my experiences: Try Gun Tests magazine. They are supported by subscribers, and accept no advertising. They are not a large, slick publication, but I trust their reviews and look forward monthly to their honest assessment of guns.

[@JimzAuto]

Kudos to Remington. 1) Built in USA. 2) Interesting Pederson Action & low bore-axis. 3) Interesting '401G' investment potential. Thanks for sharing your 'fair and balanced' review.

[@thedefinitive6296]

You found one that works? Congrats on the unicorn lol

[@sootch00]

From what I'm seeing , that may be true.

[@thedefinitive6296]

@@ahernandez1080 That doesn't make any sense. In the end, he doesn't recommend it because the gun has historically had too many issues. I doubt that's what Remington would have paid him to say. Also, Sootch has always seemed like a straight shooter so I doubt he got paid off to do this review. Nobody is really even checking for this gun so it doesn't make any sense for him to put his integrity on the line like that.

[@sootch00]

@@ahernandez1080 Obviously you didn't watch much of the video. Honestly, I don't care what you think if you are calling me a liar! lol!

[@SVT40AK47]

See this is the kind of bull statements that just makes no sense. My R51 has been flawless. Another couple hundred rounds and I will be using it as my carry at times. I know the one channel that basically made it fashionable to crap on this hand gun. I understand his review on the first gen, it was bad. But if you watch his review on the second one it’s like he wanted it to fail. Made no sense. Also, I think there was some early magazine issues but nothing to be as drama worthy as the unnamed reviewer gave.

[@jeffwilson1217]

@@SVT40AK47 I love me r51! It's as flawless as my rm380! Edc with Winchester Defender +P jhp.

[@sickpickle8801]

My draw to this pistol is it's different locking mechanism, it's low bore axis and metal frame. I also enjoy shooting old top break revolvers so maybe I'm just a weirdo.

[@msharmall7298]

I feel you on all of that lol

[@gunfisher4661]

Me too but I think it`s one of the nicest looking auto loaders on the market today.

[@timothygagnon9472]

I don't know why top break revolvers aren't the norm for design...

[@dennism837]

Just ordered one and can’t wait for it to get here. Even given all its problems it’s a beautiful and interesting product. I appreciate your no-nonsense, comment as you go style, allowing me to acknowledge the shortcomings others have found while seeing that they aren’t necessarily chronic for everyone :-). I applaud Remington for bringing a not ‘me too plastic another Teflon frypan’ to the market.

[@Supperconductor]

I’d be interested in hearing some more recent long term reviews of this pistol. I’d like to believe that the manufacturing process has been refined over time.

[@sootch00]

You have a good point. Most of the R51 Gen 2 Reviews are from 2 years ago. Seems like Remington has done some upgrades. All I know is this R51 seems to work. Of course I'm getting eaten alive in the comments! lol!

[@freshfowler1398]

@@sootch00 The Hell with whomever gives you a hard time for showing your results on this gun!!! Thank you Sootch00!!✌👍🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@SVT40AK47]

Supperconductor It’s a good little pistol now!!!!

[@davids5956]

@@sootch00 I've got close to 1500 rounds through mine and it is fine. I did have an issue with one of the magazines. It seems to have had a weak spring.

[@Quality_Guru]

The field strip is like a firearms jigsaw puzzle. I’m tempted to purchase this pistol just to see if I can properly disassemble it and properly put it back together. Thanks for showing us something completely different and especially a review that goes upstream from the rest of the crowd.

[@Quality_Guru]

@Paul Curry Hi Paul - Thanks for the update. It's always good to get a recommendation from an actual owner. I'm looking forward to acquiring this pistol for a sub 250 price. Who doesn't like a great deal on a reliable pistol, especially one that is very unique?

[@cn-lb1bf]

I accually own an R51 and have shot it for over a year. More than a thousand rounds at this point. I had a problem with the magazines early on and think they could use reworking. The gun is reliable and shoots very accurately. I have not had a malfunction since the first 50 rounds and those were magazine problems. A good gun.

[@us2berlin]

Always a trustworthy source of reviews. They are always thorough and comprehensive. One of the top 5 firearms reviewers on KZbin, IMHO. I understand why he doesn't recommend it as a CCW based on its track record, but I believe Remington is getting the problems worked out with this gun. Personally, if I had an example that I put 600 rounds through with only one malfunction, I'd carry it. I'd base the decision to carry it on the sample you have.

[@wichitajj6475]

Even though Nutnfancy didn't like the R51 he also said it was reliable as well; Sootch isn't the only one

[@SVT40AK47]

There is several legit reliable reviews out there. I love the gun and it drives me crazy the bad press the 2nd gen is still trying to be given out there.

[@ATARI800XLfan]

seems issue is usually when people do plus 1, just stick to the rounds the mag holds. what I do with my carry

[@GoldenClays1]

Thanks for the honest assessment. Love your reviews because I can rely on what you say as a guide for what I buy. Really appreciate that! In my experience, you've never been wrong.

[@carebear8762]

Picked up a 2Gen on a private sale for a good price. Came with aftermarket thicker wood grip panels on it which make it more hand-filling. Soft shooter, no problems thus far.

[@sootch00]

Thanks for sharing your experience Mathew!

[@hamegger6277]

Hi Scootch00 I have three of this two black one twotone. Love your videos . I can finally say that I can take this gun down better you. You are right I have over 500 rds each . If you clean and lube this guns and polish the ramp it fires flawlessly. The take is easy clear the gun.Drope the mag, then pull the trigger then pull the slide back slowly listen for the click ! The take down notch and take down pin will be in perfect alignment!! Pull the pin out the slide will stay in place .pullthe slide back and hold on to the barrel.then do your break down. It is easier if you bring the slide back then lift out the spring bushing then finish your disassembly.when putting back together and you have barrel back in slide .bring barrel to front of slide get a 3/8 X 1/4 socket stick it into front of barrel you will hear a little click the spring is set behind the lip in the barrel slide barrel through rest part of the barrel out side the slide with the groves holding that way you slip the block in. Then before you put the slide back on, pull the trigger on the frame. In a upright position slide the frame back on the gun over the hammer you will here a click the notch and pin are in perfit position. When you have pin in pull back on slide and release you are done!!!

[@zeke688]

hey great advise. I have two wish u could make a video..zeke

[@danav3387]

I don't get it. Seems some think you should have given this particular gun a bad review. Seems pretty clear to me this gun on this day did exactly what everyone can plainly see.. You said it had 1 malfunction... Are you supposed to say it had more problems when it didn't? It is what it is.. Thumbs up on a good explanation of the function and features of this gun...

[@andytavenner8833]

I purchased the R51 over a year ago. It has functioned perfectly. I absolutely love it!!!

[@derekcomingo2197]

I prefer if u have a bunch of problems with it to not pack it up and send it back but tell the viewers so they can make informed decisions. KZbin now a days is just a long ad. Too bad.

[@sootch00]

It is what it is. I think I was pretty clear about the issues the R52 has had. Ad? Lol!

[@sootch00]

@@Highgear145 I said I don't recommend it for Self defense and that it's had a lot of problems. Did you watch the video? Now you're trolling.... Lol!

[@sonnygunz9207]

I agree 100%. If it fails I would like to know. Why hide that...

[@derekcomingo2197]

i actually had another channel in mind, i was just saying....this other channel, not even a gun channel, says why review trash products, ill just review good ones, or something like that...i learn a lot from reviewed products. im looking for a BCM vs DD vs Midwest or something to view now...cant find one but.

[@mannys9130]

@@abcdaw22 Hahaha! Funniest thing I've read all day. Ruger pistols are solid as a rock. My LC9S has never had a malfunction in 1000 rounds. Not one. It equals my Glocks in reliability and I carry it daily.

[@sjhoff]

Thanks for this review and giving the R51 a chance. I love them, I have one with over 1000 rounds through it and have only had 3 malfunctions and those were all within the first 300 rounds. I used brass, aluminium, and steel case. all malfunctions were with steel cased Russian ammo (100 rounds total). I tried the steel case because I saw one reviewer say it wouldn't shoot it. I had one stovepipe, one failure to feed completely, and one in which the round nosedived in the magazine and was not picked up. I have shot hollow points through it without failure. I have taken it apart and put it back together so many times, I don't even find it difficult, you learn the tricks. Its nowhere near as easy as a Glock, but I do find it somewhat easier than a 1911. It has a slightly bigger size than most single stack small nines and is actually more comfortable for me than any others I have tried. Mine has worked great and is my favorite concealed carry gun, and yes I do carry it. P.S. Get the rosewood grips, they have a little palm swell that makes the gun marginally thicker overall, but they feel and look a whole lot better.

[@Lando_P1]

Glad you gave it a fair review. Thanks

[@sootch00]

Thanks Cole!

[@cephasmartin8593]

I fell in love with the R51 the first time I saw it. I'm glad I hesitated when it first came out, but I've been wondering lately if they had finally gotten the bugs worked out of it. I am glad to see this video.

[@sootch00]

Thanks Cephas! I'm hoping Remington has been making changes to insure reliability.

[@aaronkeener95]

Don’t know how much I trust your view. You said the RAS47 was a great gun n we had nothing but problems. 6 RAS47 Sold 1. Bolt broke 2. One jam on every ammo n failed a no go gauge 3. Fail a no go gauge out of the box.

[@doommodena]

Failed a No Go gauge out of the box?! Holy hell. That is damn horrible!

[@sootch00]

@@Highgear145 Sponsorship? I have no connection with Remington and said I don't recommend this R51 for self defense. Did you watch the video?

[@sootch00]

@@SGT_G What monetary gain? Lol! I made it clear that I have no connection to Remington and stated that I don't recommend the R51 for Self defense. But the real question is if you think my reviews are BS, why are you here? Troll much?

[@sootch00]

@@psychobeam99 Yet here you are.... Lol!

[@sootch00]

@@doommodena That's pretty bad for sure.

[@almostontimehero5415]

The problem is that you may not need a gun for 99% of your life time, but when you do need one, you REALLY need it and it has to work.

[@lonestarprepper0156]

Got this pistol for my wife who has a fused wrist and shoulder replacements. Other than the more difficult breakdown to clean it has proved to be a reliable handgun firing 115 gr fmj ammo. The sleek design makes for good conceal carry. It is vulnerable to limp wristing which might contribute to any failures.

[@sootch00]

Thanks for sharing your experience. Most of the Gen 2 reviews are over 2 years old so maybe Remington had made some upgrades.

[@henryfam58]

I’ve had mine over a year now and after 3200+ rounds had 2 fail to feeds in first couple of hundred rounds. Been perfect functioning for over 3000 rounds. Love this gun, smooth draw for concealed carry amazingly accurate. It just feels right in my hand.

[@coltwinchester6124]

Do you have any trouble with the disassembly and reassembly.?

[@henryfam58]

@@coltwinchester6124 it’s tricky, but like. Everything else it gets easier with practice.

[@coltwinchester6124]

@@henryfam58 actually it is not tricky. Did you know when you reassemble it, you can put the slide back on just like a Glock. You just have to push harder. What part do you find tricky? I can help. I can disassemble and reassemble mine in 34 seconds, so can you.

[@thewilliam8342]

It’s like the B-26 Marauder of WW2, in the hands of a inexperienced pilot it was a widow maker. But then comes along Gen. Dolittle who shows everybody how it is done and it then becomes a legend.

[@charlieshepherd4743]

If you are talking about Dolittle's raid on Tokyo, he used B-25s, NOT B-26s!!

[@WALTERBROADDUS]

@@charlieshepherd4743 Charlie he knows exactly what plane he was talking about. The reference is due to the early reputation the plane and gun have.

[@samuelmorado70]

WALTERBROADDUS B 25 Mitchell

[@SCSlimBoiseID]

Nice review. I was an "early adopter" with the first release of this pistol. It had MANY problems and I promptly sent it back - opted for the R1 trade deal that they offered. Much later, after the Gen 2s came out, I decided to give them a second chance. No problems with the "Gen 2" version of this pistol whatsoever. The only gripe I have about it is the field stripping procedure - it's pretty wacky for a semi-auto, and takes a little getting used to. Other than that, no complaints. I tend to shoot the 9mm NATO rounds through it. I somehow think that the added recoil impulse of the heavier bullet helps to assure that the slide makes it all the way to the rear on firing. That said, I had no problems at all with 115 grain through 147 grain factory ammo, FMJs or HPs. A word about firing cast lead alloy bullets - the firing pin hole can get plugged up with bullet lube residue to the point that the firing pin won't hit the primer with enough force to set it off. I saw that happen. The gun went back to Remington and was returned with a note that said "cleaned firing pin hole."

[@North_Florida_Shooter]

I’ve got a Gen 1 and a Gen 2. The Gen 1 is rough and gritty when you cycle it, but it works. My Gen 2 has run flawlessly. Obviously you should test any pistol before you carry it, but as for mine, I’d feel fine carrying it. My only gripe is how much of a pain in the ass it is to disassemble. That being said, I have an original Model 51 .380 made in 1925 and it’s a pain in the ass to take apart, too.

[@Keithjmcc]

I just think it’s a pretty gun. I already have the things I need for self-defense and any fire arms I acquire now is for hobbies sake. I’ve kind of been interested in this gun for a couple years now.

[@CStack2Ci]

Great review! I love the look of this handgun, but am turned off by the complexity of disassembly and potential for malfunction. I appreciate your honesty!

[@izzyiz810]

Sootch reviews are the best. I can stop at Sootch & MAC. The only reason why I watch more reviewers is just to add to the knowledge. But you guys are the best! Thanks for great content!!

[@rjenkins4325]

Sootch...sorry, Remington needs to just focus on their bread and butter.....SHOTGUNS...Pistols just aren't working out for them....Standing at gun counter..."Sir, show me some Remington pistols please." Sales clerk responds, "Let me show you some Hi-points behind the counter you may be interested in.."

[@AOMartialArts]

Haha!!!!! 🤣

[@bmstylee]

Remington shottys suck now as well. Look for an older used one should you want an 870.

[@originalterrorsquad]

I disagree the RM380 is a pistol to take a look at

[@l4d2160]

I think they did a good job on their R1 1911. I have one and the only thing it's choked on is winchester ammo. Burns through everything else I've tried

[@ino592002]

Hah!!!

[@22addict40]

Scootch, I appreciate you NOT begging for Patreon support like a lot of guys are doing! I saw it run by on the screen but you don't devote video time just for Patreon and for that I appreciate and support you Sir! Wish more were like you!

[@TheOldMachines]

I think this gun looks really good, unique in a world of polymer copies

[@normoloid]

I like the style of it a lot! There's also a very cool semi auto shotgun offered by Remington called the versa max, it has ingeniously simple gas reloading system and you should definitely get your hands on that also! Merry Christmas and happy new year sootch!

[@trullmann]

I dig the looks of it!

[@kennyburnett8420]

I have not had any problems with my R 51. No hang ups, or anything. And I found it to be extremely accurate.

[@tjo4087]

Sootch, the one reviewer I really trust!

[@sootch00]

Thanks Thomas! I am honored by your comment!

[@tjo4087]

@@sootch00 your integrity has earned you a place with the patriots.

[@jasoncox4234]

I fully agree.

[@joejhurojr3914]

Sootch00, I just love mine. In my military career of 42 yrs I carried a 1911 A1 & a M-9 & loved both both calibers. I own 2 P08 Lugers, 1 P38, 1 S&W 39-2, & 1 M9, & 7, 1911s & love them all, and always wanted an old Rem. 51, I just to have the Rem. R-51. It's one my best CCL now. Love your vedio.

[@caleblacina5466]

The one time I’m grateful for the California gun roster 🤣

[@z50com]

I live in California, if they were on the roster I would pay the $250 to try one out. It's a COOL looking pistol. . . .

[@germaxicus6670]

Sootch I feel bad that you needed such a long rant to justify your experience. You had one that works and that's awesome. You are one of the gun reviewers I trust the most! Thanks for the vid.

[@mruler360]

I’m surprised they even bothered to keep supporting this thing much less continued on with a Gen2. At least this version seems to work.

[@z50com]

No matter what anyone thinks, it's a GOOD looking pistol. . . .I wish I could try one out here in California.

[@daveufirst]

What do you mean "wish"? Aren't you a US citizen? Get Calipornia out of your way by ignoring their lawless laws. Keep wishing your rights away.

[@z50com]

@@daveufirst They aren't available here in California! And I can't buy one in any other state unless I buy it from a private party! You got one to sell me?

[@789295]

Did you see the rubber ball instead of a spring that controls the extractor?

[@daviddixon2209]

At this price, I'd take a chance on it. I'm still carrying my Shield, though.

[@tbull5555]

I was starting to dig the R51, especially at the price point. then you showed the field strip. I'm out on that, what a pain! I guess I'm spoiled! ............... Still might look at it for the price, might make a good boat gun! Great job as always!

[@YurrNext]

I love the looks of this gun, i so badly wanted it to be a good gun. But you can never have too many range toys, especially at this price. 😉

[@thebigeasy8609]

A good honest review sir. I've had an R51 since the 2nd gen came out. I thought that this was such an interesting pistol, with it's John Pedersen design and I think quite a cool looking pistol as well and the price was right. So I bought one and have been extremely happy with it. Only issue and I say that lightly was a ftf and I have shot well over 1000 rds through it on my range. I have no problem carrying mine and switch between the R51 and my Sig P938. It's a shame so many people have had issues with them because when they run they are a pleasure to shoot. Thanks for all your videos sootch00 I know I enjoy them.

[@Morehills840]

Looks like most of the negative comments are from people that have never owned a R51.

[@christopherwg4236]

I agree I really like this gun have around seven hundred rounds through mine and it shoots great I initially had to send mine in so they could polish the bolt but after that it's flawless!

[@sonnygunz9207]

I love my older 870's (1959-1980)and 1100 (1967). I recently took the plunge and bought a Tac 14 Hardwood... I'm very impressed. Everything is perfect. The entire chamber and bore are mirror polished like my Wingmasters and 1100. The Tac 14 Hardwood also has the 870p barrel retention system. The trigger is crisp and had a nice reset, which my older ones do not have. Fit and finish are great for a mass produced pump shotgun. Honestly I wasn't expecting much but I was pleasantly surprised for sure. I hope Remington keeps making sh*t that works the way it's supposed to. I'd like to see the R51, all steel with a nice bluing and checkered walnut grips. That's probably asking a lot though. Thanks for the review. I want Remington to prosper. We can't lose or have more great American gun companies move manufacturing to China, Turkey or wherever.

[@JeffWallace2009]

After watching the disassembly and reassembly process, I’ve come to the conclusion this handgun appears to be a manufactured mess. A complete departure from sensible manufacturing.

[@jerryjohnsonii4181]

Just can't justify paying that kind of money on a handgun that i myself can't trust. Also it's an pain to field strip it an put it back together too. Another great review Sootch00 an long live the republic Sir.

[@cameronnorton5898]

It's a handsome pistol for sure.

[@dlam2864]

you kidding?

[@joefoam794]

You'd think that after 100 years that all the bugs would be worked out. It speaks to Remingtons manufacturing abilities.

[@weedXD38]

Good Stuff!!! Awesome Overview!!! Long live the Republic!!! :-)

[@sootch00]

Thanks Weed! Long Live the Republic!

[@majormassenspektrometer]

Long live the boot licking!

[@lungfixer]

Sootch00, thank you for taking the time to review this gun. I was wondering why my slide was locking back without a magazine until your video pointed out the slide stop needed to be UNDER the spring. I found with a bit of manipulation (a slight downward pressure as you push in) I was able to get it in place without the need for an extra tool. BTW, I purchased one simply because, at 60% off MSRP ($200 + tax), you get an all-metal handgun for less money than a Hi Point. Makes a nice range toy, but will never be my EDC.

[@royalstar650]

I’ve been using my R51 for two years now. So far it has digested various types of rounds flawlessly. I would buy it again.

[@donaldmeaker3627]

On my second year of carry with R51. No issues, for a small pocket gun, single action trigger. It is what I like, and shoots like a much larger gun.

[@vfonte218]

All these negative comments. I have an RP9 and love it!!! It shoots better then my styerm40. It's accurate! Have had zero problems!

[@zeke688]

hey there and the take down is not that bad....have r-51&rp9 love them both...zeke

[@BloodiedYetUnbowed]

How many internet comments saying "I must have gotten lucky because I haven't had any problems with my Remington R51" does it take before people start to wonder whether the problems were fixed?

[@uncletrick1]

Thanks for the honest review, Sootch! I think you said something that a lot of people either didn't hear or didn't want to hear: Most (if not all) reviewers are basing their results on ONE unit. Whether a review reveals a particular gun operates perfectly or is crap doesn't really matter, because if you're basing your decision on only one video review, you're making a huge mistake. No one can definitively say anything about the reliability of a gun based on testing one unit!

[@sootch00]

Thanks Robert! One test unit is not very scientific! lol! I suspect that Remington has been hard at work making neccessary changes to make the gun more reliable but we'll still do some more testing. Plus I think a lot of people are commenting before they get to the part where I say I don't recommend this pistol for self defense in light of previous videos showing a lot fo problems. I appreaicte your comment.

[@nathancombs11]

A R51 that works lol must have been magic.

[@jllucci]

Not magic. They do tend to be particular about cartridge OAL if you find what it likes they will run flawlessly.

[@jllucci]

@@enjoynature4113 : No way to prove or disprove, but mine was a "Problem" pistol to start with and I solved it without the rigmarole of sending it back to Remington. Scootch could have had the perfect storm of good ammo, good magazine, and gun with good from the box tolerances.

[@North_Florida_Shooter]

Each to their own, but my Gen 2 works flawlessly. I have a Gen 1 as well, and it’s definitely rough and gritty when it cycles, but it runs most of the time. The only negative I have about the Gen 2 is how much of a PITA the disassembly is, but that’s inherent to the Peterson design. I have an original model 51 .380 and it’s a bitch to take apart, too.

[@miked2543]

Sootch really has one of the best gun channels on youtube.

[@ckim6400]

They should have dumped this design. Disassembly is a joke.

[@sootch00]

Disassembly is a nightmare! lol!

[@bmstylee]

Bad design in general which is why no one uses it anymore...... except for the morons at Remington.

[@jllucci]

Sorry not disassembling it during a gunfight.

[@ckim6400]

@@jllucci If you shoot and train with it why put up with the horrible design to clean it?

[@jllucci]

@@ckim6400 : I don't have a problem with the design. It also has some awesome firing characteristics.

[@XavierSchmidt412]

Love the look of the pistol. Thanks for the review.

[@oldskoolhoss7534]

I think its a great looking gun. But Remington has me very skeptical anymore on thier products. For that matter almost anything owned by freedom group

[@ecidragon]

I have one. This is my EDC, I love the shape because there are no sharp corners. I have fired about 200 round through it and never had a problem. Taking it apart is kinda hard.

[@drmaudio]

I have no opinion on this pistol, other than I like the way it looks. Having said that, I think there is a tendency to pile on a company or product that has had problems, even if they correct them. This is more an issue of human nature than it is a reflection of the actual product. That is not to say that some of the problems are not real, but I suspect many are exaggerated (intentionally or otherwise) or even fabricated just for the sake of being part of the dog pile.

[@sootch00]

Thanks for the comment brother. There's a good possibility that Remington has made changes since the early Gen 2's were released. Most of the reviews with a lot of malfucntions are 2 years old. I'm actually thinking of buying another one from a local gun shop and seeing what results I get. Plus we'll know more as we shoot more rds through this one.

[@drmaudio]

@@sootch00 I'll be interested in the results. I appreciate the your even tempered review.

[@antkevinbass]

I don't understand why people are attacking Sootch. He gave a very honest review of a sample of one. His gun had one malfunction and he shared that. He clearly says not recommended for self defense. As a cheap recreational and different gun i personally would buy one. Thank you Sootch for all you do!!

[@aliman3229]

Nice looking and nice shooting pistol. Accurate and reliable but... Really not user friendly for cleaning and reassembly.

[@sootch00]

Thanks and I agree, Disassembly is a nightmare!

[@JASONSCALLORN]

Fair and professional review. Well done sir.

[@Tsoiugidali]

OK. I don't have a dog in this fight but ... do we really need another 7+1 9mm that has "issues"? I see many 7+1 9mms out there that are simple to disassemble, easy to carry and are dependable as sun rise and sun set. I do wish Remington well on this release however. Nice review sootch. Thanks.

[@LiChoiFungfan]

Some deluded people say there is "no need" for firearms at all. Free societies offer choice of selection to fit the needs of every individual. The gun actually shoots just as advertised. Lower muzzle flip, lower felt recoil and thus better follow up shots. Great single stack "CCW" option. Field stripping does suck though.

[@LiChoiFungfan]

David S Actually, there are some other pistols with enclosed hammers but, the ones I'm thinking of are DAOs.

[@jeffwilson1217]

Love mine. Like everything else, practice... I can take mine down, and put it back together in the dark, with my eyes closed.

[@Tsoiugidali]

@@jeffwilson1217 Good on ya Jeff. Sometimes it is not the arrow.

[@edmak1349]

So the barrel is the "guide rod" now for the recoil spring. Very neat idea to achieve the low bore axis and tame recoil. I'm just concerned that recoil spring now sits directly over the barrel as it heats up and cools. I'm not sure how that will affect the service life of the spring. Inspite of its negatives I'm still buying one just because I can and the fact that it's an interesting design.

[@Scarywoody]

Even Glock "Perfection" has a service department. Personally, not for me though.

[@shmike3775]

@Phil McCrevice who cares if its ugly. No ones gonna be impressed when you draw your shit-tacular r51 and it stovepipes.

[@haredywaled]

I don’t care how others killed this gun with their reviews . I think guns works based on how much you love them ! And no one loves guns more than this guy . They work like a dream with him . Best regards :)

[@ericchugg]

I feel sorry for anyone who buys this gun. So many better options out there!

[@BG-ww5lg]

Yep. Like jimenez arms stuff, or really anything. Id rather have a royal nonesuch chest mounted quad barrel slam fired 12 gauge as my only gun instead of this thing. Lol.

[@SVT40AK47]

Oh good grief. Your missing out. This is a great little hand gun now.

[@LiChoiFungfan]

Have you even fired one?

[@ericchugg]

@@LiChoiFungfan No honestly... Just that field stripping process is terrible, and the overall reputation.

[@LiChoiFungfan]

@@ericchugg Well, if you've never fired it, how can you reliably claim that there are "so many better options out there?" Why "feel sorry" for anyone who buys the gun? Is the reputation of the gun totally justified, or is it partially misconstrued?

[@ladyb648]

I purchased a R51 at a gun show a few months ago and I agree with Sootch about the reliability for a CC, but it is a accurate gun on the range for practice and have fun with. I do have some hang-ups with the shell casings not rejecting properly. I use my Walther PPS M2 as a CC instead but I do take the R51 to the range for practice and fun time.

[@Redwood4321]

That thing looks like a Phaser from Star Trek.

[@GoreTorn16]

Except it shoots fart beams.

[@billjohn7383]

Timothy Hamilton be

[@CSchnell-lj1io]

Don, I gotta say, thanks to your reviews I've purchased 3 handguns, LOL! Love the reviews!

[@90foxfreak]

So basically, if it was a complete pile of shit (like most of them) you would've never made a vid letting people know its a pile??

[@sootch00]

There are enough reviews of the R51 Gen 2 that show problems. Having a bunch of malfuctions woud have just been a huge waste of time to bother with a full review.

[@90foxfreak]

@@sootch00 Ooooor, would you NOT have been paid (or compensated in some way) had you gave a bad review...

[@jllucci]

@@sootch00 : Exactly! Why humiliate Remington further?

[@benw9431]

90foxfreak he said he didn’t get paid from Remington either way....try to keep up sport

[@90foxfreak]

@@benw9431 May not have gotten paid by Remington, but guarantee he didnt pay for the gun! GunBuyers logo didnt popup on screen for no reason.... Kinda like the way he got pissed at S&W because they wanted thier gun back, then he started talkin shit on S&W!! Maybe you should keep up......sport!! This is not an honest gun channel...

[@tablerockkid8237]

Appreciate the straight info. Looks like the little pistol shoots well with a nice high grip and low bore. Looks pretty neat, and well finished. The breakdown is cumbersome but not extremely so. One FTE in 600 rds is not a total deal breaker but like you I would stick with something with a better rep for carry. Appreciate all you do. Thanks.

[@sootch00]

Thanks Brother! It's a sweet shooting handgun and we'll do more testing so see how it goes. I appreciate you watching!

[@ronernst3991]

I like how the barrel doesn't tip up when the slide locks back like most 9mm.

[@wpherigo1]

Pretty honest review, Sootch. Great job, as always.

[@curtisdowling3773]

I applaud you for always being honest and truthful !!!!! Thank you !!!

[@jasoncox4234]

Thanks for your honest review. Been on the fence on this. Looks like a wonderful range toy and a great weapon to use for smaller shooters.

[@johngordon9503]

Thanks for your honest reviews sir!

[@PostalBound]

Great review. I was one of the few who purchased the original R51 and it worked fine so I never returned it. I do carry it occasionally and have confidence in it. It is a sweet shooting pistol with lower felt recoil in 9mm than any other I've tried. I do own an original 51 in 380 so I"m a fan of the design. Contrary to what you mentioned in video, I shoot almost elusively handloads in +p 147 grain HP. No wearing issues to date.

[@hotrodparker]

Glad to hear this pistol shot well. I sure appreciate your reviews.

[@911couple5]

Appreciate your honesty. I wouldn’t come to your channel if I doubted your character. You are among the few I trust to give solid information. People seem to confuse opinions with fact. You’ve never to my knowledge said you were prefect. Do I agree with all your opinions. Not really lol but I value your experience and always take that into account when looking at guns.

[@lastincarnate3240]

The R51 is an AD waiting to happen. It even chambered a round when I put the magazine in without touching the slide release. I had a failure to feed on the third round. I had many in the course of 100 rounds. I called Remington and they had me send the handgun back.

[@philupdegrave731]

Great vid, honest review. I'm thinking of buying a Gen 2, and I've seen a lot of vids that trash the pistol (usually because of the disassembly/reassembly), and I've seen a lot of vids that laud it. I'm leaning toward making the purchase.

[@diegopeluffo7505]

I have learnt more english with Sootch00 watching gun reviews that with all my boring trachers in my whole life

[@billymeech9954]

Thanks for the impartial review sootch. I have one I really like it so far I've had really good luck with it. it's a second generation had it for quite some time not too long after they brought out the 2nd generation.

[@sootch00]

Thanks for your comment Billy! Seems like there are a lot of guys that actually own the R51 Gen 2 that are having the same experience.

[@deaconblue949]

Thanks for an honest review. I too have one that's been very reliable with most - not all ammunition. And that's ok. It doesn't have to like all brands of ammo and it's up to the owner to shoot their guns and train with them especially if they're planning to carry for self defense. I know what works with mine and I wouldn't hesitate to reach for it if I need to defend myself. I think that the takedown is really not that big of an issue, especially after doing it a couple of times. The basic design is a hundred years old. It's not going to fall apart when you push a button. I think people have gotten lazy in that respect. Maybe try doing a review on the RM380 sometime. Another nice pocket pistol from Remington.