A Legacy Forged in Steel
Origins and Impact
The Remington 700. Even a casual observer of the firearms world knows the name. It’s a titan, a legend, a cornerstone of bolt-action rifle design. Its influence is undeniable, weaving itself into the fabric of hunting rifles, precision target platforms, and military and law enforcement weaponry. If you’re looking to build a dream rifle, upgrade your existing one, or simply understand the heart of a classic, you’ve likely pondered the question: what is the Best Remington 700 Action for me? This guide aims to provide a thorough exploration of this iconic action, giving you the knowledge to make an informed decision. We’ll delve into its history, design, variations, and the all-important aftermarket modifications, ensuring you can identify the perfect Remington 700 action to match your specific needs and shooting aspirations.
Early Success Factors
The Remington 700 didn’t spring fully formed from the mind of a designer. Its roots lie in the Remington Model 721 and 722, introduced in the early 1950s. These predecessors laid the groundwork for what would become a revolutionary platform. The Remington 700, unveiled in 1962, built upon this foundation, incorporating key improvements that would solidify its place in firearm history.
The Remington 700’s Widespread Influence
The Remington 700’s immediate success stemmed from a combination of factors. Its robust and relatively simple design made it incredibly reliable. The three-ring system, where the bolt face, the barrel, and the receiver all lock together, provided exceptional strength and rigidity, contributing to improved accuracy. The action’s inherent precision allowed it to handle a wide range of cartridges, broadening its appeal to hunters, target shooters, and law enforcement professionals.
Dissecting the Core: Essential Design Features
Receiver Construction
Understanding the internal workings of the Remington 700 action is crucial to appreciating its strengths and knowing what to look for when making a selection.
The Bolt Design
The heart of the rifle is the receiver. This component houses the bolt, the trigger, and the action. The Remington 700 receiver is typically made from steel, offering excellent strength and durability. The receiver’s cylindrical design provides a rigid platform for the bolt to cycle within, minimizing flexing during firing and contributing to enhanced accuracy. The receiver’s construction also affects the ease with which modifications can be performed.
The Trigger System
The bolt is another critical element. The Remington 700 bolt is characterized by its two large locking lugs, which engage with recesses in the receiver. This two-lug design, along with the receiver, creates a three-ring system that provides maximum strength and ensures tight lockup, critical for accuracy and safety. The bolt face contains the firing pin and extractor, essential for extracting spent casings. The design of the bolt allows for a smooth and efficient cycle, making for reliable and effortless bolt operation.
Feeding and Extraction Mechanics
The trigger system is another key feature. The Remington 700 factory triggers have seen various iterations. While some early versions were regarded as decent, many shooters, both then and now, often look to upgrade their triggers for improved performance. The trigger’s crispness, pull weight, and overall feel can dramatically affect the accuracy of the rifle. Aftermarket triggers offer significant improvements over factory options.
Accuracy Considerations
The feeding and extraction mechanisms of the Remington 700 are generally reliable. The rifle typically feeds cartridges from a magazine, whether internal or detachable, directly into the chamber. The extractor securely holds the spent cartridge case during extraction. When the bolt is pulled back, the extractor pulls the spent case out of the chamber. These mechanisms are typically well-engineered, contributing to the rifle’s reputation for reliable performance.
Evolution of a Classic: Examining the Variations
Early Production Considerations
Accuracy is a hallmark of the Remington 700. The design of the action, with its strong receiver, tight bolt lockup, and precisely machined components, plays a significant role. The consistent and repeatable lockup of the bolt, combined with the quality of the barrel and the trigger, are all key ingredients in achieving exceptional accuracy. However, like all rifles, the rifle is only as accurate as the shooter and the quality of components.
Action Lengths and Cartridge Compatibility
The Remington 700 has been produced in many different variations throughout the years. Understanding these nuances will help you identify the best action for your project.
Model Designations
Early Remington 700 actions sometimes differ slightly from later productions. Differences exist in manufacturing techniques, and metal finishes. While most actions are compatible with aftermarket parts, these differences can affect the interchangeability of some components, particularly the trigger and the bolt.
Special Editions and Custom Shop Versions
Action length is a critical consideration when selecting a Remington 700 action. Short actions are designed for shorter cartridges, such as the .223 Remington and .308 Winchester. Long actions accommodate longer cartridges, such as the .30-06 Springfield and .300 Winchester Magnum. Magnum actions are specifically designed to handle powerful magnum cartridges. Choosing the correct action length is paramount for reliable feeding and optimal performance.
Unleashing Potential: Aftermarket Upgrades
Trigger Improvements
The model designation of a Remington 700 can provide clues about its features and intended use. The BDL model, for example, is often associated with higher-end features like a hinged floorplate. The ADL model is generally a more basic version. The SPS (Special Purpose Synthetic) model is characterized by its synthetic stock, favored for its durability and weather resistance.
Bolt Customization
The Custom Shop versions, and any special editions, represent the highest tier of quality and craftsmanship. These versions often incorporate upgraded materials, premium features, and enhanced performance. These models are sought after by serious shooters who value the ultimate in accuracy and aesthetics. The Custom Shop version is frequently accompanied by a higher price tag, reflecting the exclusive nature of these builds.
Receiver and Action Work
The aftermarket support for the Remington 700 is extensive, offering an array of upgrades to enhance both performance and aesthetics.
Stock and Chassis Options
The trigger is often the first component that shooters look to replace. An aftermarket trigger can offer a much crisper break, lighter pull weight, and improved overall feel. This can translate directly into tighter groups and enhanced accuracy.
Barrel Upgrades
The bolt is another area ripe for customization. Aftermarket bolt handles provide ergonomic improvements. Different bolt designs can be chosen depending on the function.
Choosing the Best: Factors to Consider
Intended Use: Hunting, Target, Tactical
Receiver and action work can dramatically improve the precision of a Remington 700. Action truing, where the action is precisely machined to ensure that all surfaces are perfectly aligned, can improve accuracy. Blueprinting, which includes truing the action, as well as checking the barrel, action and bolt and squaring the bolt face, can further enhance the performance of the action.
Budget Constraints
The stock or chassis significantly impacts both accuracy and handling. From classic wood stocks to rugged synthetic options to advanced chassis systems, there are options to suit every need.
Cartridge Selection
Barrel upgrades can significantly impact accuracy and performance. The contour, length, and rifling of the barrel can influence the rifle’s overall characteristics. A high-quality, precision-made barrel can significantly enhance the rifle’s accuracy and consistency.
Accuracy Requirements
Selecting the Best Remington 700 Action requires careful consideration of several key factors.
Reliability Considerations
Your intended use is the primary consideration. A hunting rifle requires different characteristics than a precision target rifle. A lightweight, compact action might be preferred for hunting, while a heavier, more robust action is better suited for long-range target shooting.
Illustrative Examples: Specific Scenarios
Hunting Applications
Your budget will impact your choices. Premium actions and upgrades come with a higher price tag. Decide on the budget, and carefully consider what components are more important, prioritizing upgrades.
Target Shooting Precision
The desired chambering will narrow your choices. Select an action that is compatible with the cartridge you intend to use. Different cartridges require different action lengths and bolt face sizes.
Tactical and Law Enforcement
Accuracy is often the primary goal. The quality of the action, barrel, trigger, and the expertise of the gunsmith are essential for obtaining the desired precision. Action truing, blueprinting, and a high-quality barrel can significantly impact accuracy.
Budget-Conscious Builds
Reliability is paramount. Ensure the action has a reputation for reliability. Properly maintain the action, and replace components as needed.
Potential Downsides: Considerations and Alternatives
Potential Issues with Older Actions
Here are some scenarios to show how different considerations shape your choice.
Maintenance and Rust
For hunting applications, the Remington 700 BDL or SPS are classic choices. These rifles offer a balance of features, are available in various chamberings, and are generally affordable. Upgrading the trigger would provide an immediate improvement.
Other Weaknesses to Consider
For precision target shooting, the Remington 700 action can be built up with various parts. Action truing is vital. A heavy-profile barrel and a high-quality aftermarket trigger will maximize accuracy.
Alternative Action Options
For tactical use, the Remington 700 action can be adapted with a chassis system, a heavy-profile barrel, and a reliable scope. The Remington 700 platform has been, and continues to be, successfully employed in law enforcement and military roles.
Closing Thoughts
For budget-conscious builds, the Remington 700 ADL is a great starting point. Used actions are a great way to save money. Focus on upgrading the trigger and barrel to maximize accuracy.
There are some potential drawbacks.
Some of the earlier actions may have potential issues. Check the action, and determine its compatibility with components.
Rust and proper maintenance are required with steel actions. Regular cleaning and lubrication are vital for preventing rust.
Remington 700 actions, like any firearm, may have weaknesses. Research known issues, and choose an action built from the best materials and with the most quality construction.
Consider alternatives. Tikka T3x actions are often praised for their smoothness and accuracy. Howa rifles offer excellent value for the price. Custom actions offer the ultimate in precision and performance.
Finding the Best Remington 700 Action is a journey, but one that offers rich rewards. With careful consideration of your needs, an understanding of the action’s features and variations, and access to aftermarket components, you can build a rifle that will provide you with years of enjoyment and accuracy.
Ultimately, the “best” action is the one that perfectly complements your shooting goals. Take your time, do your research, and consider the options carefully. Whether you’re a hunter, target shooter, or tactical enthusiast, the Remington 700 platform provides a solid foundation for a truly exceptional rifle.
