The Remington 700 is a legend among bolt-action rifles, and its short action chambered in .308 Winchester is a particularly popular choice for a wide range of applications. This guide delves into the specifics of this iconic combination, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and ideal uses. We'll cover everything from its history and features to ammunition selection and potential modifications.
A Legacy of Accuracy: The Remington 700 Platform
The Remington 700's enduring appeal stems from its inherent accuracy and robust design. Its three-lug bolt, controlled-round feed, and adjustable trigger contribute to its precision and reliability. The short action variant is designed for cartridges shorter than the long action's capacity, making it a perfect match for the popular .308 Winchester. This cartridge, with its readily available ammunition and relatively mild recoil, makes the short action 700 a versatile platform for various shooting disciplines.
Advantages of the Remington 700 Short Action in .308 Win:
- Versatility: The .308 Winchester is suitable for hunting a wide range of game, from deer and hogs to larger animals depending on bullet selection and shot placement. It's equally at home on the range for target practice and long-range shooting.
- Accuracy: The Remington 700 platform is renowned for its accuracy, and when paired with quality ammunition, the .308 Win short action delivers exceptional precision.
- Ammunition Availability: .308 Winchester ammunition is widely available, affordable, and comes in a vast array of bullet weights, types, and configurations.
- Recoil Management: Compared to more powerful cartridges, the .308 Winchester has relatively mild recoil, making it comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
- Aftermarket Support: The Remington 700's popularity means a massive aftermarket exists for upgrades, accessories, and customization. You can tailor your rifle to your specific needs and preferences.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Cost: High-quality Remington 700 rifles can be expensive, especially when adding accessories.
- Trigger: While adjustable, the factory trigger might not suit every shooter's preference. Many opt for aftermarket trigger upgrades for improved performance.
- Potential for Issues (Historically): While Remington has improved its manufacturing processes, older models might have experienced issues with safety. Thorough inspection and potentially professional servicing are recommended when buying used rifles.
Choosing the Right Ammunition:
Ammunition selection is crucial for optimal performance. .308 Winchester ammunition is available in a wide range of bullet weights and types, each designed for specific purposes:
- Hunting: Heavier bullets (150-180 grains) are popular for hunting, offering excellent energy transfer and knockdown power.
- Target Shooting: Lighter bullets (125-150 grains) are often preferred for target shooting, providing flatter trajectories and reduced recoil.
- Long-Range Shooting: Match-grade ammunition with specific ballistic characteristics is essential for precision long-range shooting.
Experimentation is key to finding the ammunition that best suits your specific rifle and shooting style.
Customization and Upgrades:
The Remington 700 short action is highly customizable. Common upgrades include:
- Aftermarket Stocks: Replacing the stock can significantly improve ergonomics, comfort, and accuracy.
- Triggers: Upgrading the trigger can provide a crisper, cleaner break, improving accuracy.
- Scopes and Mounts: Selecting the right scope and mounts is vital for optimal sighting and accuracy.
- Barrels: Barrel changes can alter accuracy and performance, depending on the chosen profile and materials.
Conclusion:
The Remington 700 short action in .308 Winchester represents a strong combination of accuracy, versatility, and reliability. While it's a significant investment, its popularity and adaptability make it a worthwhile option for hunters, target shooters, and anyone seeking a high-performance bolt-action rifle. Remember to carefully consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing a rifle and accessories. Always practice safe gun handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations.
