Remington Model 81A Woodsmaster .300 Savage – 1946 Krieger/POE Detachable-Magazine Conversion
Here is a post-war Remington Model 81A Woodsmaster chambered in the sought-after .300 Savage, built in November 1946 and subsequently upgraded with a period Krieger/POE-style five-shot detachable magazine system. Combining John M. Browning’s long-recoil action with a custom conversion that collectors prize today, this rifle delivers a blend of historical significance, mechanical ingenuity, and practical field utility that few semi-autos of the era can match.
Condition
Overall: Good. The original brushed-blue finish shows honest wear with scattered light scratches, scuffs, and small handling marks, all consistent with responsible sporting use.
Bore: Good. The bore is bright with well-defined six-groove rifling and only minor evidence of use—exactly what you hope to see in a 1940s hunting rifle.
Wood: Walnut stock and fore-end remain structurally sound with typical dings from decades in the field. The aftermarket “Red Head Brand” ventilated recoil pad is correctly fitted and still supple.
What’s Included
• Bright-finish detachable 5-round magazine (installed)
• Vintage leather sling, already fitted for carry
Why this rifle stands out:
• Rare chambering: Remington offered the Model 81 in .300 Savage only from 1940 until production ended, giving this example instant collector cachet.
• Long-recoil pedigree: Licensed directly from Browning, the barrel and bolt recoil together before separating—an arrangement shared only with iconic designs like the Auto-5 shotgun. The system soaks up recoil and keeps the action cycling smoothly.
• Custom magazine conversion: The Krieger/POE detachable-box setup replaces the fixed five-round assembly, allowing faster reloads while preserving original balance and reliability. Period workmanship and serial-range correctness make it an accepted upgrade among Model 8/81 aficionados.
• Takedown capability: Remove the fore-end, rotate the barrel nut, and the 22-inch shrouded barrel slides free for compact transport—perfect for camp or cabin storage.
• Historical bridge: The Model 81 is the direct predecessor to Remington’s later Woodsmaster line (Models 740/742/7400). Owning one connects you to the earliest chapter of high-power self-loading sporting rifles in America.
Whether you’re finishing a Remington collection, looking for a classic deer rifle with roots in Browning’s genius, or simply appreciate well-executed period custom work, this 1946 Model 81A offers authenticity you can feel every time the charging handle settles forward. Enjoy the craftsmanship, the history, and the unique character that only a long-recoil Woodsmaster can provide.