The Remington 700 is more than just a rifle; it’s an American icon, a cornerstone of bolt-action rifle design. It’s a platform revered by hunters, target shooters, and military personnel alike. Its enduring popularity lies in its inherent accuracy, robust construction, and the vast aftermarket support that allows for significant customization. When it comes to upgrading a Remington 700, one of the most impactful improvements you can make is the barrel. This guide delves specifically into the world of the Remington 700 barrel in .308 Winchester, providing the information you need to select, install, and maintain the perfect barrel for your needs. Upgrading your Remington 700 barrel 308 Winchester can dramatically enhance performance, extend effective range, and tailor the rifle to your specific shooting pursuits.
The .308 Winchester cartridge is a legend in its own right, often considered one of the most versatile and effective cartridges ever developed. Known for its accuracy, flat trajectory, and excellent ballistic performance, the .308 Winchester is perfectly suited for a wide range of applications. From hunting medium to large game to long-range target shooting, the .308 Winchester delivers consistent results. Its widespread availability of ammunition and components further contributes to its popularity. The inherent accuracy of the .308 Winchester, combined with the Remington 700’s solid action, creates a winning combination for shooters of all skill levels. This pairing offers remarkable accuracy potential, making it a favorite among competitive shooters and hunters alike. The .308 Winchester is a cartridge that truly excels in the Remington 700 platform.
Understanding the Heart of the System and Cartridge
The Remington 700 rifle is a bolt-action platform distinguished by its reliability, inherent accuracy, and ease of customization. Its simple yet effective design has remained largely unchanged for decades, testament to its fundamental soundness. The rifle’s cylindrical receiver, robust bolt, and adjustable trigger contribute to its renowned precision. The 700’s consistent performance has also garnered the respect of the military and law enforcement communities. The wide range of available stocks, scopes, and accessories adds to its modularity, allowing shooters to tailor it to their preferences. Understanding the rifle itself is paramount to selecting the right Remington 700 barrel 308.
The .308 Winchester, also known as the 7.62x51mm NATO, is a rimless, bottlenecked cartridge designed to deliver excellent accuracy and effective range. The cartridge’s popularity has been fueled by its balanced performance characteristics, making it suitable for hunting various game animals, competitive shooting disciplines, and military applications. The cartridge provides a great balance between recoil, ballistic performance, and energy on target. The .308 Winchester uses bullets that can be matched with the best Remington 700 barrel 308 to give the best results.
The .308 Winchester’s versatility extends to the available bullet weights. Lighter bullets (150-168 grains) excel in target shooting and provide a flatter trajectory. Medium-weight bullets (168-175 grains) represent a balanced choice for both hunting and long-range shooting. Heavier bullets (175-180+ grains) offer superior retained energy at longer distances and are often preferred for hunting larger game. Selecting the appropriate bullet weight is crucial for achieving optimal accuracy and performance and is a vital consideration when choosing your new Remington 700 barrel 308.
Considering the Specifics of a Good Barrel
Selecting the correct specifications of the new barrel is crucial for achieving the desired performance. There are several essential aspects to consider when upgrading to a Remington 700 barrel 308.
Barrel Profile
Choosing the correct barrel profile is an important step. Barrel profiles influence weight, balance, and heat dissipation. The Remington 700 barrel 308 can have different profiles that fit several needs. A sporter barrel, typically lighter and thinner, is a good choice for hunting rifles where weight is a primary concern. It offers good maneuverability but may heat up more quickly during sustained firing. Heavy varmint barrels, also known as bull barrels, are thicker and heavier, providing superior accuracy and heat resistance, ideal for long-range target shooting and competitive shooting. These barrels provide more stability. The choice here depends on the intended purpose of the rifle.
Barrel Length
The length of the barrel has a direct impact on bullet velocity, trajectory, and overall rifle handling. A longer barrel generally results in higher muzzle velocity, leading to a flatter trajectory and greater effective range. Shorter barrels are more maneuverable and better suited for close-quarters environments, or hunting. It’s a trade-off – higher velocity and range versus maneuverability and handling. A popular choice for a Remington 700 barrel 308 is between 20-24 inches, but the best length depends on your shooting needs.
Twist Rate
The twist rate of a barrel is another key specification that determines the stability of the bullet in flight. It’s measured in inches of the barrel length required for the bullet to make a full rotation. The twist rate must be matched to the weight and shape of the bullets. A faster twist rate (e.g., 1:10) is better for heavier bullets, while a slower twist rate (e.g., 1:12) works well with lighter bullets. Using the incorrect twist rate can result in poor accuracy. Consulting a ballistic chart or barrel manufacturer’s recommendations is essential for selecting the proper twist rate for your chosen .308 Winchester bullet weights. The correct twist rate is essential for the best performance with your new Remington 700 barrel 308.
Barrel Material
The material from which your barrel is made significantly affects its durability, accuracy, and resistance to environmental factors. Carbon steel is a traditional material for barrels, known for its good accuracy and affordability. Stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance, making it a popular choice for those shooting in harsh weather conditions or who prioritize low maintenance. Chrome-moly steel provides a balance of durability and accuracy, representing a good all-around option. The right barrel material enhances the longevity of your Remington 700 barrel 308.
Chambering
Choosing the correct chambering will allow you to load cartridges correctly. The chambering refers to the precise dimensions and specifications of the chamber inside the barrel that holds the cartridge. Proper chambering is critical for both accuracy and safety. Match chambers, carefully reamed to tighter tolerances, often provide increased accuracy. However, the chambering must be compatible with the cartridge you will be using. This includes the proper headspace.
Exploring Reputable Brands and Their Offerings
The market offers a wide array of barrel manufacturers catering to the Remington 700 platform in .308 Winchester. Here are some of the most popular brands offering barrels that can replace your Remington 700 barrel 308:
Krieger Barrels
Krieger Barrels is renowned for its precision-crafted barrels, favored by competitive shooters and demanding hunters. They are known for their exceptional accuracy and consistency.
Bartlein Barrels
Bartlein Barrels are highly regarded for their consistent accuracy and are often used in tactical and long-range applications. The performance of these barrels can be excellent with your Remington 700 barrel 308.
Shilen Barrels
Shilen Barrels are a well-established name in the shooting sports, known for their high-quality construction and reputation for accuracy.
Criterion Barrels
Criterion Barrels are known for their quality and affordability, offering a good balance of performance and value.
These are only a few of the many barrel manufacturers that can support your Remington 700 barrel 308. When considering which barrel is right for you, check out their reviews.
The Installation and Gunsmithing Aspects
While some experienced shooters may attempt barrel replacement, it is generally recommended to have a qualified gunsmith perform the installation. Barrel installation requires specialized tools and expertise to ensure proper fit, headspace, and alignment. Improper installation can lead to significant safety issues and reduced accuracy. A professional gunsmith will ensure your new Remington 700 barrel 308 is correctly installed.
During installation, the gunsmith will carefully fit the new barrel to the receiver, ensuring proper headspacing. Headspacing is the critical dimension that controls the fit between the bolt face and the cartridge case. Incorrect headspace can lead to failures to extract, or worse, catastrophic firearm failures. Proper headspace is an absolute must for safety and optimal performance.
After the new barrel is installed, a break-in procedure is often recommended to help condition the barrel and maximize its accuracy potential. The break-in process typically involves cleaning the barrel thoroughly after a specific number of shots, removing any manufacturing imperfections and allowing the rifling to settle. Following the manufacturer’s recommended break-in procedure can help you achieve the best results with your new Remington 700 barrel 308.
Benefiting from an Upgrade
Replacing the barrel of your Remington 700 offers several advantages. Upgrading to a high-quality barrel often results in a significant improvement in accuracy. This increased precision translates to tighter groups, increased effective range, and improved performance in both hunting and target shooting scenarios. Your new Remington 700 barrel 308 will give you great results.
Choosing the right barrel depends on your specific needs. If you are primarily a long-range shooter, a heavier barrel with a fast twist rate may be the best choice. For hunters who prioritize maneuverability, a lighter sporter barrel might be more appropriate. Other components can also improve your shooting experience, such as the trigger, scope, and stock.
Taking Care of Your Barrel
Proper maintenance is vital for preserving the accuracy and extending the lifespan of your .308 Winchester barrel. Regular cleaning removes fouling, prevents corrosion, and ensures consistent performance. Cleaning your Remington 700 barrel 308 is an essential part of owning the rifle.
After each shooting session, clean the barrel thoroughly to remove carbon, copper, and other fouling. Use a high-quality cleaning rod, bore brush, and solvent specifically designed for firearms. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning.
Besides cleaning the barrel, it is also good practice to protect it. Applying a light coat of oil to the bore helps to prevent corrosion and maintain accuracy. Store your rifle in a safe place that is dry and has a consistent temperature to avoid moisture buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Barrels
What is the typical lifespan of a Remington 700 barrel 308? The lifespan of a barrel varies depending on factors such as the type of ammunition used, the frequency of shooting, and the level of maintenance. Most barrels can easily handle several thousand rounds before showing signs of wear.
What are the advantages of choosing stainless steel over carbon steel? Stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance, making it better suited for use in humid or wet environments. It is also more resistant to heat.
What twist rate should I choose for hunting versus target shooting? For .308 Winchester, a twist rate of 1:10 or 1:11 is generally suitable for most hunting bullets. For heavier, longer range bullets, a 1:10 or 1:11 twist rate is generally a good choice.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a new Remington 700 barrel 308 is a critical decision. By carefully considering the specifications, researching reputable manufacturers, and taking proper care of your rifle, you can enhance your accuracy, extend your effective range, and fully realize the potential of this iconic platform. The right barrel will help you get the best performance from your Remington 700 barrel 308.
Investing in a new barrel represents a significant step toward optimizing your shooting experience. Take the time to research and choose the barrel that best suits your specific needs. You will be amazed at the impact of a high-quality barrel. Consider what you are doing and the type of barrel that will work best for you. Explore the options available, consult with experienced shooters, and consider upgrading your Remington 700 barrel 308 to take your shooting to the next level.
