The Remington 700’s Story: A Legacy of Accuracy
The biting wind whips across the prairie, carrying the scent of sage and the rustle of dry grass. Far off, a flicker of movement betrays the presence of a coyote, oblivious to the precision that awaits. This is the domain of the varmint hunter, and the weapon of choice for generations has often been the Remington 700, a rifle that has earned its place as an icon of American firearms. This article explores one of the most respected variants within that legacy: the Remington 700 BDL Varmint. We’ll delve into its history, features, performance, and suitability for varmint hunting, providing a comprehensive overview for both seasoned hunters and those new to the sport.
To understand the BDL Varmint, one must first appreciate the foundation upon which it’s built: the Remington 700. Born in the mid-1960s, the Remington 700 was more than just a rifle; it was a revolutionary design that quickly established itself as a benchmark for accuracy and reliability. Its origins lay in the quest for a better, more accurate bolt-action rifle, an ambition that drove Remington to refine and innovate.
The core of the Remington 700’s success lies in its action, a meticulously crafted bolt-action mechanism that, from its inception, was engineered for precision. Its cylindrical receiver and robust bolt locking system contributed to inherent accuracy. Remington introduced several innovations in its design, that has proven their usefulness and simplicity, that continues to be the standard today.
The 700’s impact has been profound. It has become one of the best-selling bolt-action rifles in history, finding its way into the hands of hunters, target shooters, and law enforcement personnel alike. The sheer volume of variants, chamberings, and aftermarket support is a testament to its enduring popularity. The Remington 700 platform has been constantly adapted and refined over the years, giving rise to various configurations, each designed for specific applications. From the lightweight Mountain Rifle to the rugged Tactical models, there is a 700 designed for almost any scenario. This foundation has made the Remington 700 a trusted companion for countless sportsmen and women.
Unveiling the BDL Varmint: A Varmint Hunter’s Companion
Now, let’s turn our attention to the star of our focus: the Remington 700 BDL Varmint. This particular model, as the name suggests, is purpose-built for varmint hunting. “BDL” stands for “Deluxe,” signifying the upgrades in stock design and features that distinguish it from more basic versions. The BDL Varmint takes the proven Remington 700 platform and outfits it with key features that enhance its ability to effectively target and dispatch varmints at varying ranges. This rifle is designed to deliver the accuracy and performance needed to meet the demands of varmint hunting.
Key features define this specialized rifle. Its action, like all 700s, is the heart of its functionality. The bolt-action system is known for its smooth operation and positive lock-up, critical for consistent shot placement. The defining characteristic of the BDL Varmint is, without a doubt, its heavy barrel. Typically constructed from carbon steel, the barrel is designed to be thicker and heavier than standard sporting barrels. This extra mass has two primary advantages. First, it helps to dissipate heat more effectively during extended shooting sessions, maintaining accuracy even when the barrel warms up. Second, the increased barrel mass reduces recoil, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
The stock is another critical aspect of the BDL Varmint’s design. Most BDL models feature a distinct stock design that often includes a raised cheekpiece, and inlays, the deluxe upgrade. These features enhance the shooter’s ability to maintain a consistent cheek weld and improve alignment with the rifle’s scope. Sling swivel studs are another common feature.
The trigger is an essential component of any accurate rifle. The original factory triggers in some Remington 700s have earned some criticism, but these are the type of trigger that is not easily modified, so they needed the upgrade, but still provided acceptable accuracy, for the time. However, it is worth noting that after market trigger upgrades are available. The BDL Varmint also usually has an internal magazine with a hinged floorplate, allowing for quick and easy unloading.
The Remington 700 BDL Varmint is a rifle that delivers in the chamberings it is known for. Many popular varmint calibers have been used in the BDL Varmint, including the ubiquitous .223 Remington, the flat-shooting .22-250 Remington, and the potent .220 Swift. These cartridges are all well-suited for reaching out to the distances often encountered in varmint hunting. Choosing the right caliber for a given varmint species and the terrain where you are hunting will significantly improve the overall success.
Accuracy and Performance: Hitting the Mark
Accuracy is paramount in varmint hunting. The Remington 700 BDL Varmint, with its heavy barrel and precision-engineered action, is capable of exceptional accuracy. While specific accuracy will vary depending on factors such as ammunition, scope quality, and the shooter’s skill, it is possible to see the rifle regularly achieving sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) groups when paired with high-quality ammunition. This level of precision translates into the ability to confidently take ethical shots at longer ranges, which is crucial for varmint hunting.
Several factors contribute to the BDL Varmint’s impressive accuracy. The heavy barrel, as we’ve discussed, is a key element. Its mass dampens vibrations and helps to maintain consistent barrel harmonics, further improving accuracy. The action itself is also a significant factor. The smooth, precise bolt operation and robust locking system minimize the chances of any inconsistencies that could affect bullet flight. The BDL Varmint has a reputation for consistency.
The choice of ammunition also plays a crucial role in maximizing the rifle’s accuracy potential. The BDL Varmint performs best when paired with high-quality ammunition. This will produce tighter groups and optimal ballistics. Experimenting with different bullet weights and types is essential to finding the perfect load for your rifle. The BDL Varmint provides a consistent platform to make the testing process simpler.
Varmint Hunting: A Specialized Pursuit
Varmint hunting encompasses the pursuit of various small, often destructive animals, such as prairie dogs, groundhogs, coyotes, and other pest species. The Remington 700 BDL Varmint, designed to excel at this pursuit, offers all of the attributes necessary to succeed.
The choice of chambering should be determined by the species and the terrain. The .223 Remington is a popular choice for smaller varmints like prairie dogs and groundhogs. Its relatively low recoil makes for easy shooting, and its accuracy allows for precise shot placement at reasonable ranges. The .22-250 Remington is a faster, flatter-shooting cartridge that is well-suited for longer shots and bigger varmints, like coyotes. The .220 Swift is an even higher velocity cartridge that’s a great option for exceptional reach.
The BDL Varmint’s heavy barrel, combined with the flat trajectory of many of the available cartridges, contributes to its long-range effectiveness. This is significant, as varmints are often wary and are often found at distances where a steady, accurate rifle is required. The BDL Varmint excels in this situation.
For varmint hunting, it’s important to select a scope that can handle the conditions. Scopes with higher magnification, combined with a reticle that allows for precise holdover and windage adjustments, can be a significant asset.
Advantages and Disadvantages: A Balanced Perspective
The Remington 700 BDL Varmint offers several advantages:
The accuracy potential of the BDL Varmint is a significant advantage. The heavy barrel and precision action allow for impressive groupings and ethical shots.
Its design is durable and reliable. The Remington 700 is known for its robust construction. This ensures its ability to withstand the rigors of field use.
There is a huge volume of aftermarket support, which means that customization options are plentiful. From triggers to stocks, to optics mounts, the customization options are truly endless.
The classic design and reputation of the BDL Varmint are also worth noting. It is a rifle that’s admired and trusted by hunters. It has been a standard that is now used as a benchmark for many rifle manufacturers.
There are also a few potential drawbacks to consider. The factory trigger may need an upgrade. While the trigger can be perfectly accurate, the fact is, some shooters find that they are not as clean as others. Also, the heavy barrel can make the rifle less maneuverable, particularly in tight situations. Furthermore, the stock selection on some older models may be limited.
Customizing Your BDL Varmint: Options and Considerations
The Remington 700 platform offers one of the largest and most diverse aftermarket support systems. Whether you are looking to improve the feel of the rifle, add accessories, or improve its performance, there is something for everyone.
One of the most common upgrades is the trigger. A high-quality aftermarket trigger can significantly enhance the shooting experience by providing a cleaner break, lighter pull, and improved consistency. Stocks are another popular area for customization. Many shooters opt for synthetic stocks, due to their durability, weather resistance, and light weight.
The right scope is essential for varmint hunting. Choose a scope with sufficient magnification and a reticle suitable for long-range shooting. Consider features such as adjustable objective lenses, which can help eliminate parallax at varying distances.
Bedding the action to the stock is another upgrade that is often performed. This can improve the consistency of the action, and improve overall accuracy.
A good quality muzzle brake will make your rifle even easier to control.
The Comparison: Standing Against the Competition
While the Remington 700 BDL Varmint holds a respected position in the varmint hunting arena, it’s important to consider other viable options available on the market. The Savage Model 12 series is a formidable competitor, offering excellent accuracy and often boasting a more affordable price point. The Ruger American Predator is another option to consider for its value and accuracy. However, the Remington 700 BDL Varmint often comes with a wider range of available customizations.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. When selecting the right varmint rifle, consider the overall accuracy, the preferred caliber, and the desired level of customization. The Remington 700 BDL Varmint has earned its place as a classic for a reason.
Final Thoughts
The Remington 700 BDL Varmint is a time-tested and reliable rifle, a testament to its enduring design. For hunters looking for an accurate, dependable, and customizable platform for varmint hunting, it offers a compelling option. Its heavy barrel, reliable action, and wide range of aftermarket accessories make it a pleasure to own and shoot. If you’re considering a dedicated varmint rifle, the Remington 700 BDL Varmint should definitely be on your list.
