The Remington 700 has long held a revered position among bolt-action rifles, earning its reputation through decades of use by hunters, law enforcement, and military personnel alike. Its success hinges largely on its robust and reliable action. But with several variations available over the years, choosing the "best" Remington 700 action requires understanding the nuances of each. This article delves into the key features and differences, helping you determine which action best suits your needs.
Understanding Remington 700 Action Variations
Remington has produced several variations of the 700 action, each with subtle (and sometimes significant) differences affecting performance, accuracy, and price. Key distinctions often lie in the materials used, manufacturing processes, and available features. Let's examine some of the most prominent:
1. The Classic Remington 700 Action: A Foundation of Excellence
This is the original and arguably most iconic Remington 700 action. Characterized by its robust construction and proven reliability, this action has stood the test of time. While the specific manufacturing processes may have evolved over the years, the fundamental design remains largely unchanged, providing a solid platform for many custom builds and modifications.
- Strengths: Proven reliability, wide aftermarket support, readily available parts.
- Weaknesses: Can be heavier than newer designs, potential for some manufacturing inconsistencies in older models.
2. The Remington 700 SPS (Special Purpose Synthetic) Action
The SPS action represents a more budget-friendly option compared to the classic 700. While built to the same fundamental design principles, it sometimes employs less expensive materials and may feature slightly less refined machining. However, for the price point, it remains a capable and reliable platform.
- Strengths: Affordable price, good value for money.
- Weaknesses: May exhibit slightly less precision than higher-end models, potentially less durable over the long term.
3. The Remington 700 Police Action
Designed for law enforcement and tactical applications, the Police action typically features enhanced features for improved reliability and durability under demanding conditions. This can include strengthened components and a more robust finish.
- Strengths: Enhanced durability, reliable performance under stress.
- Weaknesses: Often more expensive than standard models, may have limited availability to civilians.
4. The Remington 700 Sendero Action
The Sendero action emphasizes accuracy. Often featuring heavier barrels and superior machining, this action is designed for long-range precision shooting. It's a favorite among competitive shooters and long-range hunters.
- Strengths: Superior accuracy potential, enhanced features for long-range shooting.
- Weaknesses: Higher price point, may be overkill for many hunting applications.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Remington 700 Action
Choosing the "best" Remington 700 action isn't a straightforward task. Several factors need consideration:
- Intended Use: Are you hunting deer in close quarters, engaging in long-range target shooting, or pursuing other applications? The intended use dictates the necessary features and capabilities.
- Budget: Remington 700 actions span a considerable price range. Setting a realistic budget helps narrow the choices.
- Accuracy Requirements: For long-range precision, a higher-end action like the Sendero might be necessary. For hunting applications at shorter ranges, a more budget-friendly model may suffice.
- Availability: Some actions and variations might be more readily available than others.
Conclusion: The Best Remington 700 Action for You
Ultimately, the "best" Remington 700 action is highly subjective and depends on individual needs and priorities. By carefully considering your intended use, budget, and accuracy requirements, you can select an action that perfectly complements your shooting style and objectives. Thorough research and understanding the nuances of each variation are crucial in making an informed decision and enjoying years of dependable performance from your Remington 700.
