Understanding the Remington 700 Platform
Bolt-Action Mechanism
The Remington 700. The name itself evokes images of accuracy, reliability, and a legacy deeply rooted in American firearms history. For generations, this bolt-action rifle has been a cornerstone for hunters, target shooters, and law enforcement professionals alike. While the standard Remington 700 models have established a solid reputation, the “Heavy Barrel” variant takes this platform to a new level, delivering a potent combination of precision and performance. This article will delve into the intricacies of the Remington 700 Heavy Barrel, exploring its design, advantages, applications, and what makes it a preferred choice for those seeking exceptional accuracy.
Receiver and Trigger Mechanisms
Before we delve into the specific features of the heavy barrel configuration, it is crucial to grasp the core design principles of the Remington 700. The rifle’s foundation lies in its bolt-action mechanism, a system renowned for its simplicity and inherent strength. This design involves manually operating a bolt to chamber a round, lock it into place, and then extract and eject the spent casing after firing. The bolt-action system contributes to the rifle’s inherent accuracy because it typically provides a robust and consistent lockup, which is critical for repeatable shot placement.
Different Models
The receiver, the heart of the rifle, serves as the central housing for the bolt and firing mechanism. The receiver’s construction and machining quality play a significant role in the overall accuracy. A well-made receiver ensures a tight, consistent fit for the bolt, minimizing any play that could affect precision.
The Heavy Barrel Advantage
Enhanced Accuracy and Precision
What exactly defines a “heavy barrel?” The term refers to a barrel profile significantly thicker than those found on standard rifles. This added bulk brings several advantages.
Improved Heat Dissipation
A heavy barrel, by its nature, offers enhanced accuracy and precision. The increased mass helps mitigate barrel whip or vibration during firing. As a bullet travels through the barrel, the barrel itself will flex or vibrate to some extent. A heavier barrel damps this movement, promoting greater shot-to-shot consistency, and, consequently, a smaller grouping of shots on the target.
Increased Weight and Stability
The heavier barrel’s increased mass improves heat dissipation. During extended shooting sessions, the barrel generates heat. A heavy barrel has a larger thermal mass and is able to absorb and dissipate heat more effectively. This reduces the likelihood of heat-related changes in the point of impact, meaning the rifle maintains its accuracy even after firing many rounds. This capability is particularly crucial for competitive shooters or those engaged in prolonged range sessions.
Features of a Remington 700 Heavy Barrel
Barrel Specifications
The added weight also contributes to improved stability. A heavier rifle is less susceptible to movement caused by external factors like wind or the shooter’s slight movements. This added stability allows for more controlled shots, especially at longer distances, ultimately translating to greater accuracy on the range or in the field. The weight of the heavy barrel, combined with a well-designed stock, can also help to reduce the felt recoil, making the shooting experience more comfortable and manageable.
Stock Options
The specifications of the barrel are central to the performance of the Remington 700 Heavy Barrel. Common calibers offered include .308 Winchester, .223 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor, and other popular rounds favored for precision shooting. These calibers provide a balance of trajectory, bullet weight, and recoil, making them ideal for a wide range of shooting applications.
Trigger Systems
The barrel twist rate is another critical factor. Twist rate refers to the rate at which the rifling within the barrel causes the bullet to spin. The appropriate twist rate is determined by the caliber and bullet weight. The correct twist rate is essential to properly stabilize the bullet in flight and ensure accuracy. The Remington 700 Heavy Barrel is typically available in different twist rates depending on the caliber to optimize performance with various bullet weights.
Other Components
Barrel finishes also impact the aesthetics and durability of the rifle. Common finishes include bluing, a traditional method that offers protection against corrosion, and Cerakote, a modern ceramic-based coating known for its exceptional durability and resistance to wear, scratches, and corrosion. The choice of finish often depends on the intended use and the owner’s personal preference.
Applications and Target Audiences
Precision Rifle Shooting
Stock options are another key element of the Remington 700 Heavy Barrel. A well-designed stock contributes to the rifle’s ergonomics, fit, and stability. Synthetic stocks made from materials like fiberglass-reinforced polymer are favored for their durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance. Wood stocks offer a classic aesthetic, but they can be more susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature. Stock designs optimized for precision shooting often incorporate features like adjustable cheek pieces and butt pads, allowing shooters to customize the fit to their individual preferences.
Long-Range Shooting
Trigger systems are vital to accuracy. While some Remington 700 Heavy Barrels come equipped with factory triggers, many shooters choose to upgrade to aftermarket options. Aftermarket triggers offer improvements in pull weight, crispness, and overall responsiveness. Options range from single-stage triggers, known for their simplicity, to two-stage triggers, which provide a distinct stage before the break, which can provide a high degree of control.
Benchrest Shooting
Other components of the rifle also play a role in precision. Scope mounting options are critical. Quality scope bases and rings ensure that the optic is securely mounted and aligned with the bore. Bolt modifications, such as polishing and smoothing the bolt, can enhance the bolt’s operation, contributing to faster and more reliable cycling. Muzzle devices, such as muzzle brakes or suppressors, can reduce recoil and muzzle rise, improving the shooter’s ability to maintain a sight picture.
Hunting
The Remington 700 Heavy Barrel excels in several applications. It is a favorite of precision rifle shooters. The enhanced accuracy and stability make it ideally suited for hitting targets at long distances, whether it be at a local range or in a competitive shooting event.
Target Audiences
The rifle is also well-suited for long-range shooting. Its ability to consistently group shots at extended ranges makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy pushing the limits of their shooting skills.
Considerations and Drawbacks
Weight and Portability
Benchrest shooting, a discipline where the emphasis is solely on accuracy, is another ideal application. The rifle’s inherent precision, combined with a stable platform, allows benchrest shooters to achieve remarkable results.
Cost and Recoil
While the Remington 700 Heavy Barrel can be used for hunting, it is not always the ideal choice. The increased weight can make carrying the rifle over long distances difficult. However, for hunting from a stationary position, such as a blind or stand, the heavy barrel’s stability and accuracy can be a significant advantage.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Who benefits from this rifle? Competitive shooters who demand the highest levels of precision. Serious hobbyists who are passionate about accuracy. And long-range hunters (where the additional weight is not a hindrance).
Customization and Upgrades
Aftermarket Barrels
While the Remington 700 Heavy Barrel offers several advantages, it is important to consider its drawbacks. The increased weight can make it less portable than standard rifles, which may be a concern for hunters or those who prefer to carry their rifles over long distances.
Stock Replacements
The cost of a heavy barrel rifle, particularly when customized with aftermarket components, can be higher than that of standard models.
Trigger Upgrades
Recoil may vary depending on the caliber and weight of the rifle. While the added weight helps reduce felt recoil, the use of high-powered cartridges can still result in a significant kick.
Bolt Modifications
Proper maintenance and cleaning are essential to preserve the rifle’s accuracy and longevity. The heavy barrel, like any precision instrument, requires regular cleaning and lubrication to prevent fouling and corrosion.
Scope and Optic Choices
One of the strengths of the Remington 700 platform is the availability of customization options. Aftermarket barrels are readily available, allowing shooters to upgrade their rifle to a specific caliber or barrel profile.
Comparison with Other Heavy Barrel Rifles
Remington 700 vs Other Rifles
Stock replacements can improve ergonomics, fit, and aesthetics. Many aftermarket stocks are available, offering a wide range of materials, designs, and features.
Conclusion
Trigger upgrades are common. Replacing the factory trigger with an aftermarket option can significantly enhance the rifle’s accuracy and feel.
Resources
Bolt modifications, such as polishing and smoothing, can improve bolt operation, and making cycling faster and more reliable.
