Understanding the Building Blocks
Components
At its core, the barreled action is the essential working mechanism of a bolt-action rifle. It’s the marriage of three crucial components: the receiver, the bolt, and the barrel. Each part plays a vital role in the rifle’s function and accuracy.
The receiver, often referred to as the action, is the chassis, the housing that contains the bolt and provides a platform for the barrel. It’s the backbone, the structural element that connects everything. Rem 700 receivers are typically machined from steel, offering strength and durability. The quality of the receiver’s construction – its tolerances and finish – directly impacts the overall accuracy of the rifle. Precision is key here. Different models of the Rem 700 have subtle variations in their receivers, but the fundamental design, and the availability of aftermarket parts, make it a powerhouse.
Next comes the bolt. This is the crucial component that locks the cartridge into the chamber, seals the breech, and extracts the spent casing after firing. The bolt’s locking lugs engage with corresponding recesses in the receiver, providing a secure lockup that withstands the immense pressure of the cartridge’s ignition. The bolt face houses the firing pin and the extractor, responsible for pulling the spent casing from the chamber. The bolt’s smooth operation is critical for reliable cycling and rapid follow-up shots.
Finally, the barrel. This is where the magic happens. The barrel’s internal bore is carefully rifled – grooves are cut along the inside of the barrel – that impart a spin to the bullet as it travels down the barrel. This spin stabilizes the bullet in flight, dramatically increasing its accuracy. The quality of the barrel, its materials (often carbon steel or stainless steel), and the precision of its rifling are paramount to a rifle’s accuracy potential. The barrel’s contour, or shape, affects its weight, balance, and heat dissipation characteristics.
The manufacturing process of these components is critical. While the Rem 700 barreled action has seen various refinements over the years, the fundamental design principles and high-quality construction ensure it performs exceptionally well. From milling the receiver to precision rifling the barrel, each step in the process is crucial.
The Allure of the Rem 700 Barreled Action: Why Choose It?
The appeal of the Rem 700 barreled action is multifaceted, extending beyond its inherent accuracy. Its popularity stems from a combination of factors that make it a compelling choice for shooters of all levels.
First and foremost, the Rem 700 barreled action offers unmatched customization potential. The aftermarket for these components is vast and diverse, making it possible to tailor every aspect of the rifle to your exact needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking to build a precision target rifle, a lightweight hunting rifle, or a tactical rig, the Rem 700 platform provides a wealth of options. You can swap out barrels in various calibers, switch out triggers, select from a wide range of stocks, and incorporate other upgrades.
The accuracy and performance of the Rem 700 itself are legendary. When paired with a quality barrel and a skilled shooter, this action is capable of outstanding precision at extended ranges. This reputation for accuracy has cemented its place as a favorite among competitive shooters, long-range hunters, and military and law enforcement professionals.
Another attractive advantage is the cost-effectiveness. Building a custom rifle in stages by starting with a Rem 700 barreled action and adding components incrementally can often be more economical than purchasing a complete custom rifle upfront. This allows you to spread the cost over time and upgrade individual components as your budget allows or your needs evolve. Further, if you have a favorite stock or trigger, building around the Rem 700 barreled action might be significantly cheaper than buying a whole new rifle.
The ease of gunsmithing is another significant advantage. The standardized design and widespread availability of parts make the Rem 700 a favorite among gunsmiths. This means you have a greater range of gunsmiths with the experience and expertise to work on the action and customize it to your specifications. You’re more likely to find someone who knows how to make the action sing and is experienced in installing barrels, bedding actions, and performing other advanced modifications. This readily accessible expertise is a valuable asset when building or upgrading your rifle.
Crafting Your Custom Rifle: Building Your Own
Building a rifle from a Rem 700 barreled action is a rewarding experience. It allows you to create a firearm perfectly tailored to your needs. Here’s what you need to consider.
The barrel is a critical choice. The material, rifling, twist rate, and contour of the barrel all have a significant impact on accuracy, ballistics, and the rifle’s overall performance. Think about your planned use. If you intend to hunt at extended ranges, a heavier-profile barrel made from stainless steel might be a good choice, offering increased durability and better heat resistance. If you prioritize a lightweight rifle for mountain hunting, a lighter-contour barrel made from carbon steel may be more appropriate. Carefully consider the twist rate of the barrel – this dictates what range of bullet weights it will stabilize. The wrong twist rate will cause the bullet to become unstable and decrease your accuracy.
Receiver upgrades, though not always necessary, can further enhance performance. The process of “truing” the action involves ensuring the receiver is perfectly square and that all critical surfaces are aligned. This minimizes stress on the bolt and barrel and can often improve accuracy. Some owners choose to have other action work performed, such as a bolt lapping or installing an upgraded firing pin.
Stock selection is also very important. The stock is a crucial link between the shooter and the rifle, influencing ergonomics, handling, and felt recoil. There’s a diverse range of options, from traditional wood stocks to synthetic stocks made from materials like fiberglass or carbon fiber. Wood stocks offer classic aesthetics and a warm feel, while synthetic stocks offer superior durability and weather resistance. The stock’s design and features also contribute to handling. Adjustable stocks, for instance, offer a wide range of customization options.
The trigger plays a key role in accuracy. A crisp, clean-breaking trigger is essential for consistent shot placement. Fortunately, there are numerous aftermarket trigger upgrades for the Rem 700. These triggers offer adjustability and improved performance compared to the factory trigger, often with a lighter pull weight.
You should consider bolt upgrades. While the Rem 700 bolt is robust and reliable, some shooters choose to upgrade the bolt handle, installing a larger, easier-to-manipulate handle. You can also add a bolt knob to enhance the feel and operation of the bolt.
Scope mounting is the final step. Choosing the right scope base, rings, and scope is crucial for achieving optimal accuracy. Make sure to select the correct base and rings to ensure that the scope is properly aligned and securely mounted.
Important Considerations: Making the Right Choices
Before you dive into building a custom rifle, there are some crucial factors to consider.
First and foremost, what is the intended use of your rifle? Are you building a hunting rifle, a target rifle, or a multi-purpose rifle? The answer to this question will guide your decisions on caliber, barrel profile, stock, and other components. For instance, a long-range target rifle will have very different requirements than a lightweight hunting rifle.
Next, consider the caliber. Choosing the right caliber is essential for achieving the performance you desire. Take into account the range you’ll be shooting at, the game you’ll be hunting, or your desired level of recoil. There are many caliber options available for the Rem 700 barreled action, from small-caliber rounds ideal for varmint hunting to large-caliber rounds suitable for big game.
Establish a budget. Custom rifles can be an expensive undertaking. Determining your budget early in the process will help you make informed decisions about components and gunsmithing services. Set a realistic budget and stick to it, prioritizing your needs and allocating funds wisely.
Gunsmithing may be necessary. If you aren’t comfortable performing certain tasks yourself, such as barrel installation or receiver work, consider enlisting the services of a qualified gunsmith. A skilled gunsmith can ensure that all components are properly installed and that your rifle is optimized for accuracy and reliability.
Finally, always remember to comply with local laws and regulations. Be sure you are in compliance with all federal, state, and local laws regarding firearm ownership and modifications.
Maintenance and Care: Preserving Your Investment
Once your custom rifle is built, proper maintenance and care are essential to preserve its performance and longevity.
Regular cleaning is key. After each shooting session, clean the barrel with a bore brush and solvent to remove powder residue and copper fouling. Clean the bolt and action to remove any dirt or debris that may accumulate.
Proper storage is also essential. Store your rifle in a secure location, away from extreme temperatures and humidity. Use a gun safe or a locked cabinet to protect it from unauthorized access and damage.
Concluding Thoughts: The Enduring Legacy
The Rem 700 barreled action is more than just a collection of parts; it’s a gateway to building a rifle that reflects your individual needs and preferences. Its inherent accuracy, unmatched customization potential, and ease of gunsmithing have made it a timeless favorite among shooters of all types. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just beginning your journey, the Rem 700 platform offers a world of possibilities. The availability of aftermarket parts ensures that your rifle will be perfectly tailored to your needs.
So, the next time you’re looking for a high-performance, adaptable bolt-action rifle, consider the enduring legacy of the Rem 700. Investigate the available options, research components, and start planning the build that will give you years of enjoyable shooting. Whether you’re hunting, competing, or simply enjoying the sport, the Rem 700 barreled action offers the chance to experience the best in accuracy and reliability. It is time to build a rifle that is as unique as you are.
