The Remington 700 has reigned supreme in the world of bolt-action rifles for decades, earning its place as a favorite among hunters, law enforcement, and competitive shooters alike. Its enduring popularity stems largely from its robust and reliable action. But with various models and configurations available, choosing the "best" Remington 700 action depends heavily on individual needs and preferences. This guide dives deep into the nuances of different Remington 700 actions, helping you determine which one best suits your shooting goals.
Understanding Remington 700 Action Variations
The Remington 700 action, while fundamentally similar across models, comes in several variations, each with subtle yet significant differences impacting accuracy, reliability, and overall performance. These differences aren't just cosmetic; they affect the rifle's function and feel.
1. The Classic Remington 700 Action: A Foundation of Excellence
The standard Remington 700 action, the bedrock upon which many variations are built, is known for its three-lug design, providing a solid, reliable locking mechanism. Its robust construction, often utilizing a high-quality steel, contributes to the rifle's longevity and accuracy. While not necessarily offering the latest in refinements, this classic action remains a highly dependable and accurate platform for many shooters. Its simplicity is part of its appeal—it's easy to work on, maintain, and modify.
2. The Remington 700 Short Action: For Smaller Cartridges
The short action, designed for smaller cartridges like .223 Remington, .243 Winchester, and 6.5 Creedmoor, is a more compact version of the standard action. This shorter length reduces overall rifle weight and makes it more maneuverable, ideal for applications where a lighter, handier rifle is preferred. The reduced length doesn't compromise the action's strength or reliability.
3. The Remington 700 Long Action: Handling Magnum Power
The long action is built to accommodate larger magnum cartridges like the .300 Winchester Magnum, .338 Winchester Magnum, and others. Its increased length allows for sufficient cartridge length and headspace, ensuring reliable feeding and ejection even under the high pressures generated by these powerful cartridges. While the long action is larger and heavier than its short-action counterpart, it's essential for handling the increased power and recoil of magnum calibers.
4. Remington 700 Police Action: A Dedicated Law Enforcement Option
While not necessarily a distinct action type, the Remington 700 Police model features a specific action configuration frequently chosen by law enforcement agencies. Often equipped with features like a detachable magazine and enhanced ergonomics, it prioritizes reliability and quick target acquisition. The underlying action often shares similarities with the standard or long actions, depending on the selected caliber.
Choosing the Right Remington 700 Action: Key Considerations
Selecting the ideal Remington 700 action requires careful consideration of several factors:
- Caliber: The cartridge you intend to use dictates the action length. Magnum cartridges require a long action, while smaller cartridges use a short action.
- Intended Use: Hunting, target shooting, or law enforcement will influence your choice. A lightweight short action might be preferable for hunting in dense woods, whereas a robust long action is better suited for long-range shooting or magnum hunting.
- Budget: While the basic action remains relatively consistent in cost, the overall rifle package—stock, barrel, scope—will significantly affect the total price.
- Customization Options: Consider whether you want to customize the rifle in the future. The classic action has a wealth of aftermarket support, making it easy to upgrade and modify.
Beyond the Action: The Complete Picture
It's crucial to remember that the action is only one component of a complete rifle system. The barrel, stock, trigger, and scope all play critical roles in overall accuracy and performance. Choosing a high-quality Remington 700 action is a great start, but ensure the other components are also compatible with your intended use and skill level.
This comprehensive guide provides a detailed understanding of the different Remington 700 actions available. By carefully considering your individual needs and preferences, you can select the perfect action to build or purchase the rifle that meets your expectations.
