Make: Remington

Model: Model 121SB “Routledge Bore”

Serial Number: 87586

Year of Manufacture: 1947

Caliber/Gauge: .22 LR Shot Cartridge (designed for .22 LR shot shells only, not standard .22 cartridges)

Action Type: Pump-Action (Slide-Action) Rifle, Tubular Magazine

Barrel Length: 24.5"

Sights/Optics: The sight is a metal bead set on the barrel at the muzzle. The top of the trigger assembly has a pair of drilled, tapped, and filled holes behind the receiver.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are walnut, the buttstock is smooth and has a straight comb, pistol grip, and checkered aluminum Remington buttplate. The buttplate shows light wear. The forend has grooves with a smooth bottom. The furniture shows some dings and scuffs consistent with normal operation and storage. There are no chips or cracks present. This furniture rates in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright showing mild fouling. There is light erosion throughout the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The two portions of the receiver are serial matching. There are areas of operational finish loss on the magazine tube and some small spots of oxidation and patina throughout. The bottom of the barrel shroud shows moderate patina. The screw heads are unmarred with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action and safety function correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The Remington Model 121SB Routledge Bore is one of the more unusual rimfire firearms produced in the mid-20th century. While based on the reliable Model 121 Fieldmaster pump rifle, the SB (Smooth Bore) was specifically engineered for .22 LR shot shells. The Routledge Bore produces a much more effective shot pattern compared to firing shot shells through a rifled bore.

Produced in limited numbers from 1936 to 1954, the Routledge Bore rifles were marketed for small game, pest control, and informal clay target shooting. This example, manufactured in 1947, remains in Very Good condition with a smooth bore, solid stock, and correct factory markings. These guns have become quite scarce and are now prized by Remington collectors and enthusiasts of specialized rimfires.