Introduction
For those who cherish the precision and power of a Remington 700 rifle, the feeling of a perfectly functioning firearm is paramount. The crisp bolt action, the satisfying *click* as a round chambers, and the consistent ejection of spent casings are hallmarks of a reliable rifle. However, even the revered Remington 700, a rifle legendary for its accuracy, can sometimes falter. A persistent problem encountered by some owners is extraction issues, leaving them with jammed cartridges or a frustrating failure to cycle properly. This is a headache that can ruin a day at the range or, in a serious situation, be downright dangerous.
The Remington 700, a bolt-action rifle introduced in the early nineteen sixties, is an icon in the world of firearms. Known for its accuracy and versatility, it has become a favorite among hunters, target shooters, and military and law enforcement personnel. From the rugged landscapes where game roam to the precision environments of shooting competitions, this rifle has earned a reputation that is hard to beat. It’s a platform adaptable to countless modifications, and one of the most popular upgrades is the extractor.
This article aims to delve into the world of the M16 extractor and its potential as an upgrade for the Remington 700. We will explore the intricacies of the factory extractor, analyze the benefits of the M16 extractor, guide you through the installation process, and weigh the pros and cons to help you determine if this modification is the right choice for your rifle. Our goal is to provide you with the information needed to make an informed decision and potentially boost the reliability of your Remington 700.
Understanding the Remington 700 Extractor
The factory extractor in a Remington 700 is a critical component, responsible for gripping the rim of the cartridge case and pulling it from the chamber after firing. This small piece of metal is tasked with a big job: ensuring smooth and consistent ejection. The extractor is typically a spring-loaded claw design, housed within the bolt face. When the bolt is closed, the extractor snaps over the rim of the cartridge case, holding it firmly in place. As the bolt is opened after firing, the extractor pulls the spent case out of the chamber, and the ejector kicks it out.
The factory extractor’s performance hinges on several factors. Material quality, spring tension, and proper fit within the bolt face all play a role. Over time, wear and tear, the accumulation of carbon and debris, or the use of particularly dirty ammunition can contribute to issues. Factory extractors, while generally reliable, have been known to sometimes suffer failures. These can manifest as the extractor slipping off the case rim, failing to extract the spent casing, or even breaking entirely. This can lead to jams, frustration, and potentially a disabled rifle.
What is an M16 Extractor?
The M16 extractor originated from the world of the M16 family of rifles, a mainstay in the military and law enforcement. These extractors, designed to function in harsh environments and under demanding conditions, are known for their robust design and reliable performance. The key differences lie in the design and the materials used.
The M16 extractor is, fundamentally, a claw-type extractor. However, the key to its effectiveness lies in a few crucial design elements. It typically has a larger, more aggressive claw that is designed to engage with the cartridge case rim more securely than the factory extractor. It’s often constructed from a higher-grade steel alloy, offering superior strength and resistance to wear. This stronger build is crucial for dealing with the stresses of repeated extraction, especially with high-pressure ammunition or in challenging conditions.
One of the most important aspects of the M16 extractor is its ability to function even when the chamber is dirty or fouled. The more robust design allows it to maintain a firm grip on the cartridge case, pulling it free even when there’s a buildup of carbon or debris. This is a significant advantage over the factory extractor, which can be more susceptible to malfunctions under such circumstances.
The benefits of upgrading to an M16 extractor are significant. The primary advantage is increased reliability. Because of the more robust design and superior grip, the M16 extractor is much less likely to fail, leading to fewer malfunctions. A reliable rifle is absolutely essential for both hunting and for self-defense purposes. Another benefit is durability. Crafted from high-quality materials, the M16 extractor is built to withstand many thousands of rounds of firing, withstanding greater wear and tear compared to the factory unit. This ensures the rifle operates properly for many years to come. Finally, the M16 extractor offers improved extraction in various conditions. Whether you’re dealing with a dusty environment, a heavily carbon-fouled chamber, or extreme cold, the M16 extractor is more likely to function reliably, ensuring that your rifle continues to cycle rounds efficiently.
Installation Process
Before starting any work on your firearm, safety must be your top priority. Always ensure your rifle is unloaded, with no ammunition in the magazine or chamber. Verify this multiple times, and always point the muzzle in a safe direction. Wear appropriate eye protection throughout the entire process. Read the instructions carefully and gather all the necessary tools.
The tools and materials required for installing an M16 extractor typically include:
- An M16 Extractor compatible with your Remington 700
- An Extractor Pin (often included with the extractor)
- An Extractor Spring (often included with the extractor)
- Extractor Plunger (often included with the extractor)
- A set of gunsmithing punches
- A small hammer
- A vise with soft jaws (or protective jaw pads)
- A clean work surface
- Gun oil or a quality lubricant
The installation process typically involves these steps:
First, disassemble the bolt. This usually requires unscrewing the bolt shroud and removing the firing pin assembly. The firing pin and spring should be set aside in a clean place.
Next, the old extractor must be removed. This is usually done by using a punch and hammer to drive out the extractor pin. Once the pin is removed, the old extractor can be removed from the bolt face. Take note of how it is oriented before removal so you are sure to install the new one in the same configuration.
Third, installing the M16 extractor: carefully insert the M16 extractor into the bolt face, ensuring it aligns correctly. Install the new extractor spring and plunger. Using a punch, gently tap the extractor pin back into place, securing the new extractor. Take extreme care to not damage the extractor or the bolt face during this step.
Finally, reassemble the bolt, taking care to correctly reinstall all components.
After reassembly, perform a function check. Cycle a few dummy rounds through the rifle. Ensure the bolt closes smoothly, the extractor securely grips the case rim, and the spent case is extracted and ejected properly. Check for smooth cycling, positive extraction, and ejection.
Performance and Reliability
The real test of any upgrade is in its performance. Many shooters have reported significant improvements in reliability after installing an M16 extractor in their Remington 700 rifles. Common extraction problems such as failure to extract, failure to eject, and stuck cases are frequently resolved.
The M16 extractor is generally a very reliable upgrade, often proving its worth in harsh environments and under demanding conditions. The robust design and strong gripping power provide enhanced performance, especially in situations where the factory extractor might struggle. Many owners have reported that after installing an M16 extractor, they can confidently use their rifles without worrying about extraction failures.
Considerations and Potential Drawbacks
While the M16 extractor is generally a positive upgrade, it’s essential to consider some potential drawbacks. Although the M16 extractor addresses common extraction issues, it’s not a guaranteed fix for all extractor problems. Extraction issues may be caused by other problems. These other problems may be related to the ammunition, chamber, or other components. It’s crucial to accurately diagnose the root cause of any malfunction before assuming that a new extractor will solve all of your problems.
Cost is another consideration. Purchasing the extractor itself is usually a small investment, but you may have to consult a professional gunsmith for installation. If you aren’t comfortable working on your rifle, gunsmithing services add to the overall price.
Compatibility is also important. Ensure the M16 extractor you choose is designed to fit your specific Remington 700 model. The bolt face configuration can vary between different Remington 700 rifles, and using an incompatible extractor can cause malfunctions.
Finally, while the installation process is relatively straightforward, it’s important to assess your own comfort level with gunsmithing. If you’re not confident working on your firearm, it’s always best to seek professional help. Incorrect installation can damage the extractor, the bolt, or even create safety hazards.
Alternative Solutions
Beyond installing the M16 extractor, some other solutions can address extraction issues in a Remington 700. Proper cleaning and maintenance are fundamental to reliable firearm performance. Regular cleaning of the chamber and bolt face removes carbon buildup and debris that can interfere with extraction. Make sure the chamber is clean and free of any obstructions.
While you are cleaning, inspect the extractor and spring. You should always inspect your firearm regularly. The extractor claw should be free of any damage, and the spring should retain its tension.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the M16 extractor can be a worthwhile upgrade for the Remington 700, particularly for those experiencing extraction problems. The advantages of increased reliability, durability, and improved extraction in various conditions often make it a sound investment. When the factory extractor gives you trouble, the M16 extractor often provides the robust performance needed for the reliability and function you need.
However, remember to carefully consider the potential drawbacks, such as cost and compatibility. It is important to weigh the pros and cons and ensure the upgrade is the right fit for your needs.
The final recommendation is that for many Remington 700 owners, the M16 extractor is a solid upgrade. If you are struggling with extraction issues, or if you value maximum reliability in harsh conditions, then the M16 extractor is a modification well worth considering.
If you are facing extraction problems with your Remington 700, learn more about the M16 extractor, consult with a gunsmith, or consider purchasing one.
Resources
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(Example – YouTube video of an installation) [Example YouTube Video Address]
