A Legacy of Excellence
The Remington 700. The name itself resonates with a history of accuracy, reliability, and a profound impact on the world of firearms. Since its introduction, this iconic bolt-action rifle has become a mainstay for hunters, competitive shooters, and military personnel alike. Among the many variations of the Remington 700, the BDL model, which stands for Browning, Deluxe, and Long, holds a special place in the hearts of many. This article delves deep into the world of the Rem 700 BDL stock, offering a comprehensive guide for rifle enthusiasts eager to understand its features, explore its diverse types, and discover the many avenues for customization.
The Remington 700’s story began in the mid-1960s, a time when the company sought to revolutionize the bolt-action rifle market. Drawing on innovative designs and manufacturing techniques, Remington created a rifle that quickly garnered acclaim for its inherent accuracy and consistent performance. The 700’s reputation was further solidified by its adoption by law enforcement and the military.
The BDL variant represents a significant evolution within the 700 family. It’s often considered the luxury version, distinguished by its aesthetic enhancements and, in many cases, a higher level of craftsmanship. The “Deluxe” designation signifies a step up in terms of design, finish, and overall presentation. It was, and remains, a rifle that is both beautiful to behold and a joy to shoot.
The Core of the BDL
The visual hallmark of a Rem 700 BDL stock lies in its design and materials. Historically, the stock has been predominantly crafted from high-grade walnut, chosen for its strength, grain, and beauty. The classic walnut stocks typically showcase a rich, warm tone, complemented by elegant checkering on the pistol grip and forend. This checkering provides a secure grip, even in adverse weather conditions. The flowing lines of the BDL stock are designed to enhance the overall ergonomics of the rifle.
The features are carefully considered. The classic pistol grip offers a comfortable and secure hold, allowing for precise control and trigger manipulation. The comb of the stock is designed to promote proper eye alignment with the scope, aiding in quick target acquisition and reducing strain during extended shooting sessions. The cheekpiece is often slightly raised, which is essential for maintaining a consistent sight picture, particularly when using a scope. The overall aesthetic is one of timeless elegance and functional design.
Exploring the Diverse Options
The Rem 700 BDL stock landscape is far more expansive than many realize. While the original factory stocks are highly regarded, the aftermarket and custom worlds open up a vast array of possibilities. Understanding the different types allows you to choose the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences.
Factory offerings from Remington itself provide a starting point. These stocks are designed to complement the rifle’s mechanics. You’ll often find variations in wood grade, with higher grades exhibiting more pronounced grain patterns and a more luxurious appearance. Classic walnut remains a popular choice, but Remington has also offered laminated wood stocks in the BDL style, providing increased durability and a wider range of color options. These factory stocks are designed for dependability.
The aftermarket sector explodes with opportunity. Manufacturers such as McMillan, H-S Precision, and Bell & Carlson are recognized leaders in the industry. They offer a range of stocks constructed from advanced materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber, and reinforced polymers. These often provide significant advantages over wood stocks, including enhanced durability, greater resistance to environmental factors, and improved accuracy. The synthetic materials are less susceptible to warping or swelling due to changes in humidity or temperature.
Custom stock options represent the pinnacle of personalized rifle ownership. Skilled gunsmiths can craft stocks that are perfectly tailored to the individual shooter’s physical dimensions and shooting style. This allows for a truly custom fit, providing maximum comfort and enhancing accuracy potential. Custom stocks can be made from a variety of materials, including exotic woods, and feature personalized designs, checkering patterns, and finishes. This level of customization gives you an experience catered to your needs.
Important Considerations When Selecting a Stock
Choosing the right Rem 700 BDL stock involves more than just aesthetics. Several key factors must be considered to ensure optimal performance and enjoyment.
The stock’s material plays a crucial role. Wood, as mentioned earlier, offers classic beauty and feel, but requires more careful maintenance. Synthetic stocks, on the other hand, provide exceptional durability and weather resistance. Fiberglass stocks are known for their rigidity and stability, while carbon fiber stocks offer a lightweight alternative, minimizing overall rifle weight. The material impacts the way the gun balances.
Ergonomics and fit are paramount to accuracy. A stock that fits the shooter properly will improve comfort, reduce fatigue, and promote consistent shot placement. Features such as adjustable length of pull (LOP) and cheekpiece height allow for fine-tuning to achieve the perfect fit. The design of the pistol grip and forend should provide a secure and comfortable hold, allowing for precise control of the rifle. A stock that feels right will make a huge difference in your shooting.
Proper bedding is essential for optimal accuracy. Bedding refers to the process of precisely fitting the action (the core mechanical components of the rifle) into the stock. This eliminates any movement between the action and the stock, providing a stable platform for the barrel to vibrate. The bedding is an integral part of the accuracy. The bedding can be done with epoxy.
Weight and balance are crucial considerations, particularly for hunting rifles or those used in tactical applications. A lighter stock can enhance maneuverability and reduce fatigue during long treks in the field. However, a stock that is too light may also make the rifle more susceptible to recoil. The balance of the rifle should be carefully considered, as it impacts its handling characteristics and overall feel.
Appearance and aesthetics are important to many rifle enthusiasts. The finish, color, and design of the stock can significantly impact the rifle’s overall appearance. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of walnut, the rugged durability of a synthetic stock, or a custom design that reflects your personal style, the aesthetic appeal of the stock is an essential factor.
Customization: Making it Your Own
The possibilities for customizing your Rem 700 BDL stock are virtually limitless. From minor modifications to extensive overhauls, you can tailor the stock to meet your exact specifications.
Stock modifications can enhance both the functionality and the appearance of the rifle. Checkering can be added or refreshed to improve grip. Engraving can personalize the stock with initials, logos, or custom designs. Finishing upgrades, such as a professionally applied oil finish, can enhance the wood’s beauty and provide added protection. These modifications will tailor the stock.
Accessories and upgrades can further enhance the rifle’s performance and versatility. Sling swivels allow for the attachment of a sling, making it easier to carry the rifle in the field. Recoil pads can reduce felt recoil, improving comfort during extended shooting sessions. Upgrading the trigger can result in a crisper, cleaner trigger pull, which can significantly improve accuracy.
Painting and finishing provide further opportunities for personalization. Cerakote, Duracoat, and other high-performance coatings can be applied to the stock to provide a durable and weather-resistant finish. These coatings are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing you to create a truly unique and eye-catching rifle.
Maintaining Your Investment
Proper maintenance is essential for preserving the beauty and functionality of your Rem 700 BDL stock. Regular care ensures it will last for generations.
Cleaning and maintenance vary depending on the material of the stock. Wood stocks should be cleaned with appropriate wood cleaners and conditioners, and protected from moisture. Synthetic stocks can be cleaned with soap and water and require minimal maintenance.
Storage and preservation are crucial for protecting the stock from damage. The rifle should be stored in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Using a gun safe or case can provide additional protection. Regular inspections should be made.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with proper care, issues can sometimes arise with your Rem 700 BDL stock. Knowing how to address these issues can save you time and money.
Cracks, loose bedding, and other damage can occur. Minor cracks in wood stocks can often be repaired. Loose bedding can be repaired or replaced by a competent gunsmith.
Accuracy issues can sometimes be traced to the stock. Poor bedding, a warped stock, or a loose action can negatively impact accuracy. Addressing these issues may require professional gunsmithing services.
A Timeless Classic
The Rem 700 BDL stock embodies a legacy of excellence in the world of firearms. Its classic design, enduring popularity, and versatility make it a favorite among rifle enthusiasts. The ability to customize the stock allows each shooter to tailor the rifle to their individual needs and preferences. Whether you are a seasoned hunter, a dedicated target shooter, or simply appreciate the elegance of a well-crafted firearm, the Rem 700 BDL stock represents a timeless classic that continues to inspire and perform. The choice of the right stock will make your shooting experience better.
