Model 1500 in 223 converted to .222 rem mag.

[Model52]

I own a S&W Model 1500 rifle, and it has been converted years ago to 222 Remington Magnum due to gun permit reasons in this country at the time. This obviously makes it more rare, but would this increase or decrease the value of the rifle? It's in mint condition.

 

[ColbyBruce]

What you have there is a $350.00 Howa in my area, Atlanta, Georgia, USA. A re-chambered factory barrel, especially to a unpopular, mostly obsolete caliber, would diminish it's value, IMO. I used to own a Sako in .222 mag, it was a neat caliber, but difficult to locate ammo for, making it mostly a reloaders rifle.

 

[JohnK]

I still have a SAKO, in .222 Rem. Mag. Had it since buying it, at Nagel's Gun Shop, in San Antonio, about 1968.

About 3500 rounds through it, mild loads, with IMR 4895, and 55 gr. bullets. Still punches sub 3/4" holes in the paper.

Factory ammo is still available, as far as I know, and with the parent case morphed into the .204 Ruger caliber, I imagine the cases will be available forever.

Yes, the value of the rechambered gun will probably be lessened.

 

[Model52]

Well, that's what I feared. At the time it seemed like a good idea, because it was extremely difficult to get a license to buy a .223 in this country, but .222 rem Mag was easy to get. Now it's the other way round. Anyway, it's a very precise and well finished rifle and I love shooting it. That's what counts after all. Thanks for the replies.

 

[Engineer1911]

As an alternative; remove the barrel, set the shoulder back a 1/4" or 6 mm, and rechamber to .223 Rem. You might have to refinish the barrel where the caliber is stamped or set the shoulder back so that the barrel roll mark is on the bottom "inside" the barrel channel.

 

[Model52]

As an alternative; remove the barrel, set the shoulder back a 1/4" or 6 mm, and rechamber to .223 Rem. You might have to refinish the barrel where the caliber is stamped or set the shoulder back so that the barrel roll mark is on the bottom "inside" the barrel channel.

The main problem with this - otherwise feasable - solution is that I would have to apply for a new gun license if I change the caliber back to the original. That would not only cost me about $150 taxes, but I would have to deposit the gun with a gunsmith and wait 4 months until I get the new license. I know it sounds ridiculous, but that is exactly what gun legislation is over here.