Some facts are in order here instead of overblown media hype. The following is from the Remington Website
http://www.remington.com/pages/news-...-program.aspx:
Remington is extending through December 31, 2010, its Safety Modification Program to remove the bolt-lock mechanism from certain Remington bolt-action centerfire firearms made prior to March, 1982. (Post-1982 bolt-action firearms were not manufactured with bolt-lock mechanisms). To determine whether your firearm has a bolt-lock mechanism and is subject to the safety modification program, click on the model listed below and follow the directions included. The unloading process for most bolt-action firearms with a bolt-lock mechanism cannot begin unless the manual safety is placed in the "F" or "Off or Fire" position. If you participate in the program your firearm will be modified to eliminate the bolt-lock feature and you will be able to unload your firearm while the safety is kept in the "S" or " On Safe" position. The operation of your firearm will not otherwise be affected. Here are the basic program elements:
The firearms will be cleaned and inspected and the bolt lock mechanism will be removed for $20.00 plus shipping and handling. We will return the gun to you with a safety redemption certificate to complete and submit in order to receive a free blaze orange hat. (one hat per certificate) Please click on the centerfire model to obtain more information on the program for the specific model, as there are some differences in the program based on model type:
Model 700 Model 721 Model 722 Model XP-100
Model 600 Model 660 Model 40-X
The following bolt-action centerfire firearms are not subject to the Safety Modification Program. Please click on the model for more information on the firearm.
Model 700 ML Model 710 Model 725 Model 788
Model 78 Model 30 & 30 Express Model Seven
If you have a bolt-action rifle with a bolt-lock mechanism, and you do not wish to have the lock removed, you must be sure to follow this IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Be sure the rifle is pointing in a safe direction anytime you move the manual safety to the "F" or "Off or Fire" position. As soon as you have lifted the bolt, immediately put the manual safety back in the "S" or "On Safe" position and then continue the unloading process.