The Remington 700 is a legendary bolt-action rifle, prized for its accuracy and reliability. However, its detachable magazine system, while functional, isn't always ideal for everyone. This guide explores the world of Remington 700 magazine conversions, helping you understand your options and choose the best solution for your needs. Whether you're looking to upgrade to a larger capacity, switch to a different magazine type, or simply improve functionality, we'll cover the essential aspects to consider.
Why Convert Your Remington 700 Magazine?
There are several compelling reasons why shooters choose to convert their Remington 700 magazine system:
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Increased Capacity: Factory magazines often offer limited capacity. A conversion can allow for significantly more rounds, crucial in hunting or competitive shooting scenarios.
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Improved Reliability: Some factory magazines can be prone to malfunctions. Converting to aftermarket magazines, known for their robust design, can significantly enhance reliability.
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Cost Savings: Aftermarket magazines can sometimes be more affordable than purchasing multiple factory magazines. This is especially true for higher-capacity options.
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Customization: A conversion allows for greater customization, letting you tailor the rifle to your specific needs and preferences. This might include choosing magazines with different feed lips or follower designs.
Types of Remington 700 Magazine Conversions
Several approaches exist for Remington 700 magazine conversions, each with its advantages and disadvantages:
1. Bottom Metal Replacement:
This is the most common type of conversion. It involves replacing the factory bottom metal (the part of the receiver that holds the magazine) with an aftermarket unit designed to accommodate different magazines. This often requires some level of gunsmithing expertise, depending on the specific aftermarket bottom metal and your level of experience. Many aftermarket options are available for different magazine types, such as AICS (Accuracy International Chassis System) or MDT (Magpul Dynamics Tactical) magazines.
2. Magazine Well Adapters:
These adapters sit inside the factory magazine well and allow the use of different magazines without replacing the bottom metal. They are generally easier to install than replacing the bottom metal, but might not offer the same level of robustness or compatibility.
3. Internal Magazine Modifications:
This approach involves modifying the internal components of the factory magazine to improve feeding reliability or capacity. This is generally not recommended for beginners due to its complexity and potential for damage. It also may void any existing warranties.
Factors to Consider Before Conversion
Before embarking on a Remington 700 magazine conversion, several critical factors should be carefully considered:
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Compatibility: Ensure the aftermarket bottom metal or magazine is fully compatible with your specific Remington 700 model. Different models may have slight variations that affect compatibility.
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Gunsmithing Skills: Replacing bottom metal usually requires basic gunsmithing skills and tools. If you lack the necessary experience, it's best to have a qualified gunsmith perform the conversion.
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Legal Restrictions: Be aware of any local, state, or federal laws regarding magazine capacity. Some jurisdictions restrict the use of high-capacity magazines.
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Cost: Consider the overall cost of the conversion, including the cost of the aftermarket bottom metal, magazines, and potentially the gunsmith's labor.
Conclusion
Converting your Remington 700 magazine can offer substantial benefits, enhancing its functionality and customization. By understanding the different types of conversions, considering the important factors, and carefully selecting your components, you can successfully upgrade your rifle and enjoy a more tailored shooting experience. Remember to always prioritize safety and legality throughout the process. Consult with experienced gunsmiths if you have any doubts or concerns.
