[2] The Remington 597, a competitor to the Marlin Model 795, the Mossberg 702 Plinkster, and the Ruger 10/22, was available in a number of configurations, with both synthetic and laminated wood stock options.

Its unique bolt-guidance system uses two steel guide rails, and the bolt locks in the open position when the last round is fired.

Early magazines were made of plastic and caused a number of feeding problems when loaded with more than three to four rounds.

There are now aftermarket barrels, iron sights, hammers and extractors available for the Model 597, as well as the magazines noted earlier.

[5] In August 2009, Remington warned customers to discontinue use of the Model 597 in .17 HMR due to safety issues.

[6][7] A subsequent class-action lawsuit, William S. Yancey v. Remington Arms Company, LLC; Cascade Cartridge, Inc. a/k/a CCI Ammunition, complained that the amounts were below the original purchase prices of the rifles and ammunition, and that they were only good for purchase of further Remington products.