The Remington 700 CDL in .270 Winchester remains a popular choice for hunters and long-range shooters alike. This detailed review will explore its features, performance, and suitability for various applications, helping you decide if it's the right rifle for you.
Understanding the Remington 700 CDL
The "CDL" in Remington 700 CDL stands for "Custom Deluxe," hinting at features exceeding those found in more basic models. This rifle typically boasts a blend of accuracy, durability, and features that make it attractive to a broad range of users. The .270 Winchester caliber is a classic, renowned for its versatility and effectiveness on a wide variety of game, from deer to elk.
Key Features of the Remington 700 CDL .270
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Action: The renowned Remington 700 short-action is known for its reliability and ease of use. It's a push-feed action, meaning cartridges are pushed into the chamber by the bolt.
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Barrel: The CDL typically features a free-floating barrel, contributing to improved accuracy by preventing stock pressure from affecting barrel harmonics. Barrel length varies depending on the specific configuration.
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Stock: The stock material often varies (synthetic or wood), but it's generally designed for comfort and ergonomics, with features like a textured grip and adjustable length of pull (in some models).
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Trigger: Remington 700 triggers are often adjustable, allowing for customization of pull weight for enhanced accuracy.
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Sights: Most CDL models ship without iron sights, as they are intended for use with scopes. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts.
Performance and Accuracy
The Remington 700 CDL .270's accuracy is largely dependent on the individual rifle's barrel and the quality of ammunition used. However, with high-quality ammunition, the rifle is generally capable of sub-MOA (minute of angle) accuracy at 100 yards, making it suitable for both hunting and target shooting. The .270 Winchester cartridge itself offers a good balance of flat trajectory and knockdown power, making it effective at various ranges.
Ballistics of the .270 Winchester
Understanding the ballistics of the .270 Winchester is crucial. Different bullet weights and manufacturers will affect factors like velocity, trajectory, and energy. Researching appropriate ammunition for your specific hunting needs or target shooting is essential.
Applications: Hunting and Target Shooting
The Remington 700 CDL .270 is highly versatile.
Hunting Applications:
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Deer Hunting: The .270 Winchester is an excellent choice for deer hunting, providing ample stopping power at typical hunting ranges.
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Elk Hunting: While potentially pushing the limits at extreme ranges, the .270 Winchester can effectively harvest elk, especially with heavier bullets.
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Other Big Game: The .270's performance may be less ideal for larger game than heavier calibers.
Target Shooting Applications:
The accuracy of the CDL makes it suitable for target shooting at various ranges. However, for extreme long-range shooting, calibers optimized for such distances would typically be preferred.
Considerations Before Purchase
Before purchasing a Remington 700 CDL in .270 Winchester, consider the following:
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Budget: The cost of the rifle, optics, ammunition, and accessories can add up.
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Intended Use: Determine your primary use (hunting, target shooting, etc.) to ensure the rifle's specifications align with your needs.
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Experience Level: The Remington 700 is a reliable platform, but familiarity with bolt-action rifles is recommended.
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Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for maintaining accuracy and prolonging the rifle's lifespan.
Conclusion
The Remington 700 CDL in .270 Winchester is a capable and versatile rifle suitable for a range of applications. Its accuracy, reliability, and the versatility of the .270 Winchester caliber make it a strong contender in its class. However, careful consideration of your needs and budget is crucial before making a purchase. Remember to always prioritize firearm safety and handle your rifle responsibly.
